Mon Louis Oysters

Mon Louis Oysters are a notable variety of farmed oysters from the Gulf Coast, cultivated explicitly around Mon Louis Island near Grand Bay, Alabama. These oysters are part of a growing industry in Alabama that has shifted from traditional wild oyster harvesting to more sustainable farming methods. Mon Louis Oysters are raised using off-bottom farming techniques, where they are grown in floating mesh baskets or baskets attached to long lines. This method allows for better control over the growing environment and results in a consistent, high-quality product.

The taste profile of Mon Louis Oysters is distinct and sought after. They are known for their mineral and slightly metallic finish, combined with a unique blend of cabbage-like flavors. This complex taste profile makes them a favorite at upscale raw bars and white-tablecloth restaurants. The farming of Mon Louis Oysters not only produces a premium culinary product but contributes positively to the local economy and environment. The oysters help improve water quality in the estuaries of the Gulf Coast bays, where freshwater and saltwater mix, and their farming does not depend on or negatively impact the local reef.

About New Reef Oyster Company

Dr. John Webster established New Reef Oyster Co. to cultivate Mon Louis Oysters. The farm is located in the waters near Mon Louis Island, close to Grand Bay, Alabama. This location in the Gulf Coast region provides the ideal environment for oyster farming, contributing to the unique flavor and quality of Mon Louis Oysters.

Dr. Webster’s approach to oyster farming combines traditional practices with modern, sustainable methods, contributing to the local economy and the environmental health of the Gulf Coast estuaries. The farm’s commitment to quality and sustainability has made Mon Louis Oysters a premium product, highly regarded in culinary circles for their distinctive taste and texture. New Reef Oyster Co. cultivates these oysters with care and expertise, making them a favorite among upscale raw bars and restaurants.

Mon Louis Oysters Information

Oyster: Mon Louis

Species: Crassostrea Virginica

Cultivation Method: Farmed 12-24 months

Seasonality: September-April

Size: 2.5 – 3″

Culture Method: Raised in floating mesh baskets or cages suspended in the water column. This off-bottom technique keeps the oysters away from predators and bottom sediments, resulting in cleaner shells and meat.

Salinity: 20-30 ppt (this is a broader range due to the volatility of the salinity levels in the gulf)

Appearance: Robust health and quality, with clean, strong shells. Deep-cup and full, succulent meat.

Flavor Profile: a balanced blend of moderate brininess and underlying sweetness, complemented by distinct mineral and earthy undertones. Their flavor is characterized by a pleasant saltiness that is not overpowering, paired with a subtle, refreshing sweetness.

Location

Mon Louis Oysters are cultivated near Mon Louis Island, located in the southern part of Mobile County, Alabama. This area is part of the larger Gulf Coast region, known for its rich estuaries where freshwater from rivers and streams mixes with the saltwater of the Gulf of Mexico.

Suggested Beverage Pairings

1. Champagne: Champagne is a classic pairing for seafood and tastes especially delicious with oysters. The yeasty, bready flavor of champagne adds depth to the pairing, and the bubbles provide a textural contrast against the smooth texture of oysters.
2. Sauternes: Sauternes is a sweet wine classic pairing in the late 18th century. It works well with brinier oysters.
3. Negroni Sbagliato: This cocktail is bubbly, lightly bitter, and not too sweet, making it an excellent pairing for oysters. It pairs well with just about any oyster.
4. Gin Martini: A gin martini is a refreshing cocktail that pairs well with oysters, especially on hot and sunny days. It’s low in alcohol and refreshing, making it a great choice.
5. Stout: Stouts pair well with various kinds of oysters, not just raw ones. They go well with creamy flavors and opposites like spicy and salty. Stouts are still a perfect pairing for oyster lovers who pile on horseradish or Tabasco.

Where Can I Buy Mon Louis Oysters?

1. New Reef Oyster Company –  Mon Louis oysters or other products from New Reef Oyster Company; you can visit their website or contact them directly to inquire about buying options. They may offer direct sales or work with distributors who can supply their oysters to restaurants and individual consumers.
2. Restaurants – There are several different restaurants known to have Mon Louis Oysters.
   • DumbWaiter in Mobile, Alabama: dumbwaiterrestaurant.com
   • Food Bar in Birmingham, Alabama: foodbarbham.com
   • Kimball House in Atlanta, Georgia: kimball-house.com
   • White Pillars in Biloxi, Mississippi: biloxiwhitepillars.com