Dutch Island Oysters

Dutch Island oysters have a unique flavor profile that makes them a popular variety among oyster enthusiasts. Growers cultivate these oysters in floating cages in the West Passage of Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island, where they grow in pristine waters that contribute to their exceptional quality and taste. The oysters have a full oceanic mineral saltiness that complements their thick umami finish, creating a truly unique and enjoyable oyster experience.

Dutch Island oysters are known for their distinct umami gland, which contributes to their unique flavor profile. The umami gland is a small bump on the inside of the shell that contains the oyster’s umami flavor. This gland is prominent in Dutch Island oysters and is a defining characteristic of their taste

Mark Goerner from Jamestown Oyster Co is the grower of Dutch Island oysters. These oysters are easily visible from the Jamestown Bridge due to their location in the proximity of the ocean water, which gives them a fresh and salty taste. If you’re a fan of oysters or looking to try something new, Dutch Island oysters are definitely worth seeking out.

Dutch Island Oysters Information

Oyster: Dutch Island

Size: 3.5″

Season: September- April

Cultivation Method: A multi-stage process. starting with off bottom bags to surface gear and floating cages.

Culture Method: Off bottom culture. The use of bags and baskets allows for easier maintenance and harvesting of the oysters while protecting them from predators and other environmental factors

Salinity: 32-35 ppt

Appearance: They have a classic, elongated shape with a slightly curved shell. The shells are typically grayish-brown in color with some greenish hues with rough and slightly jagged edges.

Flavor Profile:  Savory, full oceanic mineral saltiness, thick umami finish, and creamy texture.

Location

Dutch Island oysters are cultivated in the West Passage, which is located on the west side of Jamestown in Narragansett Bay. The proximity to the ocean water contributes to the fresh and salty taste of these oysters.

Suggested Beverage Pairings

1. Champagne: The crisp fizziness and acidic flavor of Champagne is a classic pairing with oysters. The carbonation helps refresh and cleanse your palate between each oyster, allowing you to enjoy the more subtle flavors.
2. Chablis: Chablis is a white wine that derives from Chardonnay grapes and is a go-to wine for pairing with oysters. The wine’s acidity and citrus fruit aromas complement the briny nature of the oysters.
3. Light white wines: Crisp, light white wines with a great amount of acidity, citrus fruit aromas, and a good complexity are also a good pairing with oysters. These wines help balance the saltiness of the oysters and refresh your palate between each oyster.
4. Guinness and other stouts: While not a wine, Guinness and other stouts are a good pairing with cooked oysters, particularly in a creamy sauce or chowder. The saltiness of the oysters counteracts the bitterness of the beer, creating a sublime match.
5. Kasteel Cru: This unusual lager made in Alsace from champagne yeasts works much the same way as Champagne. This beer is a good alternative to stouts.
6. Perrier rondelle: Iced sparkling water with a slice of lemon is a refreshing and simple pairing with oysters. The dryness and refreshing nature of the sparkling water complement the briny nature of the oysters.

Overall, there are several beverage pairings that work well with Dutch Island oysters. Whether you prefer Champagne, white wine, beer, or sparkling water, there is a pairing that will complement the unique flavor profile of these oysters.

Where to buy Dutch Island Oysters

1. Ocean State Shellfish Cooperative: The Ocean State Shellfish Cooperative sells Dutch Island oysters on their website. They describe the flavor profile as having a full oceanic mineral saltiness with a thick umami finish.
2. Pangea Shellfish Company: Pangea Shellfish Company offers Dutch Island oysters for purchase on their website. They describe the oysters as having a mineral saltiness and umami finish.
3. Fortune Fish & Gourmet: Fortune Fish & Gourmet sells seafood on their website. They describe the oysters as having a strong brine and a creamy umami finish.