Elkhorn Oysters

Elkhorn Oysters, primarily cultivated in Willapa Bay along the Washington coast, stand out in the oyster world for their distinctive characteristics and cultivation methods. Unlike many other oyster species, Elkhorn Oysters are known for their rustic appearance, featuring barnacles and a unique black and white speckled shell with shades of green. This aesthetic sets them apart visually from their smoother, more uniform counterparts found in other regions. Their cultivation involves both the Intertidal Beach and Longline methods, a testament to the adaptability and resilience of this species. The dual approach to farming these oysters enhances their flavor profile and contributes to their hardy nature, making them a favorite among oyster connoisseurs.

Another aspect that distinguishes Elkhorn oysters from other varieties is their flavor profile. They are celebrated for their firm meat, high brininess, and sweet flavor, culminating in a melon finish that seafood enthusiasts highly prize. This complex taste experience directly results from their unique growing environment and the methods employed by the Shotwell family since 1995. Allowing oysters to spend part of every day in the open air as tides recede contributes significantly to their distinct taste and texture, setting them apart from other oysters grown in different conditions.

Moreover, the Elkhorn Oysters’ contribution to the ecosystem and their role in restoration efforts highlight their uniqueness beyond culinary attributes. Efforts to restore native oyster populations, such as those in Elkhorn Slough, emphasize the ecological importance of these bivalves. They serve as natural water filters, improving water quality and providing habitat for other marine life. The challenges faced by Elkhorn Oysters, including predation and environmental stressors, underscore the delicate balance required to sustain and grow their populations. These efforts aim to preserve a beloved culinary delicacy and maintain the health and biodiversity of their native habitats.

About Elkhorn Oyster Company

Elkhorn Oyster Co. operates a family-run oyster farm on just over 30 acres in the pristine waters of Willapa Bay, WA. They cultivate Pacific oysters using traditional ground and longline methods. All oysters are harvested by hand, ensuring a hands-on approach. The company prides itself on providing fresh, quality shell stock oysters. They serve wholesale distributors and retail customers directly from their location in Nemah, WA.

Due to the nature of their operations and the need to guarantee freshness, retail sales require customers to call to place their orders in advance. Elkhorn Oyster Co. offers oysters in various sizes. These sizes include small (2 to 3 inches), small (3 to 4 inches), and medium (4 inches and over). The oysters are available year-round by the dozen or by the bushel. The farm’s business hours depend on the tides, highlighting the natural and traditional aspects of their farming practices.

Elkhorn Oysters Information

Oyster: Elkhorn

Species: Crassostrea gigas

Cultivation Method: Farmed for 18-24 months.

Seasonality: September – July

Size: Various sizes. Up to 5+ inches

Culture Method: Raised by both the Intertidal Beach and the Longline method. They are accustomed to fighting the tides and clamping tightly shut to preserve their “liquor” during low tides and to protect themselves against predators. Their hard, sturdy shells give them a longer shelf life.

Salinity: 32-38 ppt

Appearance: Very rustic looking, with barnacles and black & white speckled shells with shades of green. They are relatively large and gnarly.

Flavor Profile: This is a robust and distinctive flavor profile. It possesses a high level of brininess paired with firm meaty textures, culminating in a sweet taste with a notable melon finish.

Location

The oyster farmers cultivate Elkhorn Oysters in Willapa Bay, Washington, one of the original oystering regions in Washington. The area provides pristine conditions, making it ideal for oyster farming.

Willapa Bay is ideal for oyster farming due to several key environmental and geographical factors. Firstly, the bay’s location directly opens onto the Pacific Ocean, providing fast access to nutrient-rich ocean waters. The constant influx of ocean water creates an optimal salinity balance. This ocean water is mixed with fresh water from nearby rivers. This mixture of water supports healthy oyster growth by maintaining a perfect nutrient balance.

The large size and shallow flats of Willapa Bay expose half of the bay during low tide, making oyster harvesting more accessible and efficient. The bay’s extensive tidal exchange, about half the total water volume daily, helps flush out the bay and replenish it with clean, nutrient-rich water.

The surrounding lush forests protect the bay from pollutants and environmental dangers. The lack of heavy industry nearby also contributes to maintaining the cleanliness and health of the waters. This pristine environment plays a crucial role in producing high-quality oysters. It ensures that they grow clean and safe, free from contaminants that could affect their taste and safety.

Moreover, the bay’s natural features and the community’s long-standing tradition of oyster farming, which dates back to the 1850s, have fostered a deep knowledge and culture of sustainable oyster cultivation. This historical and cultural heritage contributes to the high standards of oyster farming practiced in the area today.

Suggested Beverage Pairings

1. Dogfish Head SeaQuench Ale – This beer blends three styles – Kolsch, Gose, and Berliner Weiss. It is brewed with black limes, sour lime juice, and sea salt to create a tart and salty flavor. The unique blend of sourness and salinity complements the saltiness of Elkhorn Oysters, making for a refreshing and invigorating pairing.
2. Ferrari-Carano Fumé Blanc 2019 – This Sauvignon Blanc is from Sonoma County. It offers vibrant citrus and green apple flavors, with a hint of oak. Its crisp acidity and zesty fruit notes cut through the sweetness of the oysters, providing a balanced and bright pairing.
3. Nikka Coffey Gin – This gin is distilled in a Coffey still that is traditionally used for whisky. It features a unique blend of botanicals, including Japanese citrus such as yuzu, sansho pepper, and apple. These notes can enhance the melon finish of Elkhorn Oysters, offering a sophisticated cocktail pairing.
4. Rodney Strong Charlotte’s Home Sauvignon Blanc 2018 – It is known for its aromatic intensity and lively flavors of lime, melon, and fresh herbs. Its crispness and vibrant acidity make it an excellent match for the rich and briny flavors of Elkhorn Oysters. It highlights their sweetness without overpowering them.
5. Anderson Valley The Kimmie, The Yink, & The Holy Gose Ale – This goes style beer has pronounced flavors of sea salt and coriander. The beer’s slight tartness and hint of spice will enhance the natural flavors of Elkhorn Oysters.

Where Can I Buy Elk Horn Oysters?

1. Elkhorn Oyster Co. – You can purchase directly from their location in Nemah, WA. They offer retail shell stock sales, but customers must call a day or two in advance to ensure the product is fresh out of the water.
2. Haggen – Fresh Live Elkhorn Oysters in the shell are available for purchase by the dozen.
3. Shaw’s – You can shop for Fresh Live Elkhorn Oysters in the shell, sold by the dozen.