Katama Bay Oysters

Do you know about Katama Bay Oysters? They are a highly desired variety hailing from Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. They cultivate exclusively in Katama Bay on the eastern side of Chappaquiddick island. If you’re a shellfish aficionado, rest assured that this area continues to be a prime source of delectable oysters. The name “Katama” comes from the original Wampanoag people’s tongue and means “crab-fishing place”. The bay’s deep waters and strong currents provide the perfect growing conditions for oysters. 

Naturally, the origin of these oysters is a business that specializes in cultivating and delivering delicious and healthy oysters from Katama Bay, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts.

The Farm

So far, Signature Oyster Farm has been oyster farming since 2006. Ran by Ryan Smith, who grew up on the Vineyard, the son of a commercial fisherman. With the help of his wife Julia, who assists with marketing and organizing their new Oyster Farm Tours, Signature Oyster Farm has become a family endeavor.

The farm sells oysters year-round in Boston and to distributors all over the country, as well as locally on the island to restaurants and businesses in Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, and Edgartown. Signature Oyster Farm also promotes Oyster Farm Tours, which provide a fun and educational experience for visitors to learn about how they cultivate.

Overall, Signature Oyster Farm is a family-owned business that has been cultivating and delivering delicious and healthy oysters from Katama Bay since 2006. They prioritize quality over quantity, ensuring that their hand-picked oyster selections meet consistent size and shape standards. Their unique cultivation method and strategic location in Katama Bay contribute to the exceptional flavor of their oysters.

Katama Bay Oysters Information

Oyster: Katama Bay

Culture Method: The oyster seed is started in one of 3 tidal-powered upwellers before they’re placed into floating bins to keep them round while promoting a thick hinge right from the start.

Cultivation Method: Planted in grow bags 100 at a time and loaded into off-bottom cages. A daily spin in a wind power tumbler helps to chip the edges and encourage a deep cup. They are always fully submerged in nutrient-rich water, which keeps the oysters chilling in the coolest, deepest water possible.

Season: Sept. to April

Size: 3.5″+

Salinity: 20-30 ppt on average

Appearance: clean white appearance and are typically 3 to 3 ½ inches in size, with medium/large shells and plump, large oysters inside. They have deep cups with firm white meat

Flavor Profile: a briny hit followed by a smooth creaminess, and a sweet finish. They are renowned for their sweet, salty taste and rich texture.

Location

Katama Bay is located in Edgartown, Massachusetts, on the south shore of the island of Martha’s Vineyard. 

Suggested Beverage Pairings

Their unique flavor profile makes them a perfect pairing with a variety of beverages.

1. Dry Champagne: The crisp effervescence of dry champagne complements the delicate brininess of Katama Bay Oysters. This creates an impeccable pairing that is sure to impress your guests.
2. White Wine: A sauvignon blanc from Westport River Winery makes for a perfect pairing. This crisp and refreshing white wine complements the oysters exceptionally well.
3. Strong IPA: Pairing a strong IPA with the salty flavor of Katama Bay Oysters is a great choice. Consider trying Lamplighter’s Rabit Rabit Double IPA for a perfect match.
4. Mezcal Negroni: The smoky and bitter flavor of a Mezcal Negroni provides a delicious contrast to the deep-water oyster.
5. Dry Floral Vermouth Cocktails: The vegetal notes pair well with dry floral vermouth cocktails, such as a classic gin martini.
6. Stout: For those who prefer stouts, Guinness and other stouts are a great pairing for oysters.

Where to buy Katama Bay Oysters

Certainly! Here are the revised responses with the links embedded in the names they are referencing:

• Island Creek Oysters: Island Creek Oysters offers a variety of soysters on thier online marketplace.
• Fortune Fish & Gourmet: Fortune Fish & Gourmet offers farm-raised oysters online with delivery options.

It’s important to keep in mind that the availability of these oysters may differ. We recommend to check with the individual vendors for the most current details.