Harvest Moon oysters stand out as a distinctive fall specialty from Narragansett Bay. These bivalves offer a unique combination of briny and sweet flavors, making them a sought-after delicacy for oyster enthusiasts.
Unlike many cultivated oysters, Harvest Moon oysters grow in a wild environment without cages or traps. This natural cultivation method allows them to develop their characteristic taste and texture, influenced by the rich ecosystem of Narragansett Bay. The partnership between farmers and nature results in a product that captures the essence of its oceanic habitat.
The harvesting process of Harvest Moon oysters contributes to their uniqueness. Farmers carefully relay and plant juvenile oysters in groomed areas, where they mature into 3-4 inch large choice oysters. This meticulous approach ensures that each Harvest Moon oyster reaches its full potential, delivering a consistently high-quality product that showcases the best flavors of the fall season.
How Did Harvest Moon Oysters Get Thier Name?
Harvest Moon oysters derive their name from their fall harvesting period, coinciding with the harvest moon that occurs near the autumnal equinox. This timing aligns perfectly with their status as a seasonal delicacy from Narragansett Bay. The name not only reflects their harvest season but also hints at the intriguing relationship between oysters and lunar cycles.
About Harvest Moon Shellffish Co.
Harvest Moon Shellfish Co. is a local business that specializes in harvesting Eastern Oysters and Peconic Bay Scallops from the Peconic Bay area. They focus on providing high-quality shellfish to their customers.
It’s important to note that Harvest Moon Shellfish Co. should not be confused with Harvest Moon Market, a separate business in Halfmoon, NY, which is a fish market and seafood restaurant
The company combines traditional harvesting methods with innovative techniques to promote sustainable farming practices. This approach demonstrates their commitment to environmental responsibility and maintaining the quality of their products.
Harvest Moon Shellfish Co. maintains a strong local presence. They regularly participate in events, such as weekend sales at Borghese Vineyard throughout the summer months. These events typically occur on Saturdays and Sundays, allowing customers to purchase fresh shellfish directly from the source.
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Discover the taste of Peconic Bay with Harvest Moon Shellfish Co.! Follow them on social media for fresh updates, seasonal offerings, and exclusive event announcements.
Harvest Moon Oysters Information
Oyster: Harvest Moon
Species: Eastern Oysters (Crassostrea virginica)
Cultivation Method: Farmed, but Wild-grown in natural environment for 18-24 months.
Size: 3-4 inches
Seasonality: May to October.
Culture Method: Bottom culture (grown on natural sea floor)
Salinity: 27-30 ppt
Appearance: a distinctive appearance with smooth, oval-shaped shells. Their shells typically measure 3 to 4 inches in length with deep dups.
Flavor Profile: a delightful balance of briny and sweet flavors. They show an early burst of saltiness that quickly gives way to a subtle sweetness. The finish is clean and crisp, with hints of mineral notes that linger on the palate.
Location
Harvest Moon oysters thrive in the Peconic Bay area, which includes Great Peconic Bay and Little Peconic Bay.
The Peconic Bay system is a tidal estuary fed by the Peconic River and several tidal estuary creeks. This creates a mixture of fresh and saltwater, resulting in brackish conditions that are essential for oyster development. The bay’s shallow waters, particularly in Great Peconic Bay, which is less than 30 feet deep. This allows for abundant algae blooms that provide a rich food source for the oysters.
Cool upwelling currents in the bay deliver nutrients from deeper waters, further enhancing the food supply for oysters. The Peconic River also contributes a blend of minerals to the bay, including iron. Iron influences the oysters’ shell color and flavor profile.
Suggested Beverage Pairings
- Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky:
This Japanese whisky’s smooth, vanilla notes complement the oysters’ sweetness. Its subtle spice enhances the briny flavors without overpowering them. - Txakoli Txomin Etxaniz:
This crisp Basque white wine’s slight effervescence and high acidity cut through the oysters’ richness. Its mineral notes mirror the oysters’ brininess. - Hitachino Nest White Ale:
This Japanese craft beer’s citrusy notes and coriander spice create an interesting contrast with the oysters’ flavors. Its light body doesn’t overpower the delicate oyster taste. - Ki No Bi Kyoto Dry Gin (neat):
Served neat, this Japanese gin’s botanical profile, especially its yuzu and green tea notes, creates an intriguing flavor combination with the oysters’ brine and sweetness. - Takara Plum Wine:
The sweet-tart profile of this plum wine offers an unexpected contrast to the oysters’ salinity. Its fruity notes bring out the oysters’ subtle sweetness in a unique way.
Where Can I Buy Harvest Moon Oysters?
- American Mussel Harvesters
- Offers Harvest Moon oysters in 25-count packages for $31.25
- Provides online ordering and shipping options
- Peconic Bay Vineyards
- Location: 31320 Main Rd, Cutchogue
- Harvest Moon Shellfish Co. has a stand here
- Accepts cash or card payments
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