Mystic Oysters

Mystic oysters are a type of oyster that are harvested in the waters of Mystic, Connecticut. The Noank Aquaculture Cooperative grows them in Fisher Island Sound, off the Connecticut coast. Mystic oysters boast a distinct appearance, flavor, and sustainability.

Mystic Oysters, a company that has been pioneering the cultured method of farming oysters since 1975, grows and harvests a type of oysters in the Mystic River estuary in Connecticut, USA, which are known for their high quality, sustainability, and unique flavor. They use innovative techniques to ensure the best possible oyster farming. They combine science and traditional methods to create healthy, delicious, and environmentally friendly oysters. Mystic oysters are fresh off the boat and are best raw or cooked in various dishes.

About the Farm

Mystic oysters come from a farm called Mystic Oysters, which is located in the Mystic River estuary in Connecticut, USA. For over 40 years, they have been operating and cultivating more than 20 acres of oyster beds. They have about 20 acres of oyster beds, where they grow millions of oysters every year. The Aquaculture Stewardship Council and the Global Aquaculture Alliance certified the farm for its sustainable practices. The farm is one of the country’s most respected and recognized oyster farms.

Mystic Oysters Information

Oyster: Mystic

Species: Crassotrea Virginica

Cultivation Method: The upwelling process involves keeping young oysters in floating bags or nets that receive a constant supply of fresh seawater and food. In bottom planting, the growers transfer the oysters to the sandy and gravelly bottom of the estuary, where they grow and harden their shells. This also gives them a natural shape and color. Harvesters handpick or dredge the oysters once they have grown to the desired size.

Seasonality: Year Round

Size: 3.5″+

Culture Method: Bottom Culture on a sandy gravel-like estuary floor.

Salinity: 14 – 28 ppt

Appearance: Large and unusually scallop-shaped, with distinctive green shells. The cooperative’s farmers carefully tend to the oysters, ensuring they grow to the perfect size and shape before harvesting them.

Flavor Profile: gentle brine into a flinty finish; a slightly salty, fruity flavor. Some people may also find them buttery and bold.

Location of Mystic Oysters

Mystic oysters are cultivated in the Fisher’s Island Sound, off the coast of Connecticut. More specifically, the oyster beds are located at the mouth of the Mystic River, where nutrient-rich waters mix with the oceanic waters. The Noank Aquaculture Cooperative in Fisher Island Sound is responsible for cultivating the Mystic oysters.

Suggested Beverage Pairings

1. Champagne: The crisp fizziness and acidic flavor of Champagne complement the salty nature of the oysters, helping cut through the creaminess.
2. Muscadet: This white wine has green fruit notes such as lime, apples, pears, and even lemons, making it a perfect pairing for oysters. Its high acidity and minerality work well with moderate to high-salinity Atlantic oysters.
3. Dry vermouth: When served chilled, dry vermouth can be a surprising and delightful pairing with oysters. Its herbal notes and subtle bitterness complement the oyster’s flavor.
4. Guinness and other stouts: The Viscosity of Guinness and other stouts can be a great pairing with oysters. The roasted malt flavors and creamy texture of stouts can enhance the oysters’ taste.
5. Strawberry lemonade or other citrusy drinks: For those who prefer not to drink alcohol or are the designated drivers for the day or night, citrusy drinks like strawberry lemonade can be a tremendous non-alcoholic pairing.

Where to Buy Mystic Oysters

1. Mystic Oysters website: You can buy them directly from the source by visiting their website. They sell their oysters fresh off the boat, and you can buy 50 for $30 or 100 for $60.
2. Pangea Shellfish Company: Pangea Shellfish Company sells these oysters online. They offer overnight delivery and have a minimum order of 50 oysters.