Ninigret Pond Oysters

Ninigret Pond Oysters are found in….. you guessed it!

Ninigret Pond is a 1,700-acre coastal lagoon in Charlestown, Rhode Island, known for its oyster farming. The pond is fed by several fresh springs and protected by East Beach from the open ocean, making it an ideal location for oyster cultivation.

Ninigret Nectar Oysters from Charlestown, RI are famous for their buttery meat and sweet, earthy flavor similar to turnips or Japanese yams. They are often consumed without any condiments.

Ninigret Nectars is a company that sells fresh oysters from the region, gaining popularity throughout southern New England and beyond for their delicious oysters. Ninigret Oysters are available through The Lobster Guy, raised in Ninigret Pond by local oysterman Rob Krause in clear and clean waters.

Quick History of Ningret Pond Oysters

The history traces back to the formation of the pond itself. Formed by glaciers over twelve thousand years ago, Ninigret Pond covers over 1,580 acres of land and is home to quahogs, oysters, and many other varieties of marine life. The pond is the largest of the nine lagoons, or “salt ponds,” in southern Rhode Island. The Ninigret oyster gets its name from the eastern Niantic aboriginal American tribe, who named it after their sachem from the 17th century.

Some key points in the history of Ninigret Pond

• The pond has long been known for its succulent oysters and rich quahog resources.
• The pond offers recreational activities and a bountiful supply of European Flat Oysters that can be gathered.
• Walrus and Carpenter, a well-known oyster farm, was founded by Jules Opton-Himmel eight years ago on Ninigret Pond.
• Behan, another oyster farmer, began growing oysters on Ninigret Pond a decade ago with a 3-acre lease, which has since grown to 7.3 acres.

Ninigret Pond: This spot sits in Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge and links to Green Hill Pond through a small channel. The pond is particularly vulnerable to storm surge flooding due to its low-lying ground.

Ninigret Pond Oysters Information

Oyster: Ninigret Pond

Species: Crassostrea Virginica

Cultivation Method: wild. Divers harvest using rakes or commercial dredging occurs.

Seasonality: Year-round

Size: 2.5 – 3″

Culture Method: Bottom cultured

Salinity: 25 – 30 ppt

Appearance: Medium-sized, deep cupped shell with a light brown coloration.

Flavor Profile: Plump and sweet with a crisp, briny finish.The oyster has a plump and juicy bite with a sweet and crisp taste balanced by a briny finish.

Location

Oyster Farms on Ninigret Pond

1. Ninigret Oyster Farm: Owned and operated by Rob Krause, Ninigret Oyster Farm is a solar-powered oyster nursery on Ninigret Pond, which he shares with fellow pond farmers.
2. Ninigret Landing: Ninigret Landing is a farmstand that sells hyper-local oysters from Ninigret Pond.
3. Ninigret Nectars: For over a decade, Ninigret Nectars has been offering fresh Ninigret Pond oysters, renowned in southern New England and beyond for their mouth-watering flavor.
4. Behan Family Farms: Behan Family Farms has been growing oysters on Ninigret Pond for a decade, with a 7.3-acre lease on the pond.
5. 401 Oyster Company: 401 Oyster Company is a restaurant in Charlestown, RI, serving oysters from Ninigret Pond.

Suggested Beverage Pairings

• Sparkling wine: Oysters and sparkling wine are a classic pairing. The effervescence of the wine complements the brininess of the oysters.
• Sauvignon Blanc: You may have noticed that Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent pairing. The wine’s crisp acidity and herbal notes complement the oysters’ rich, creamy texture, making for a delectable experience.
• Champagne: You know that they pair exceptionally well with champagne. The wine’s bubbles and acidity complement the oyster’s briny flavor and bring out its toasty notes.
• Muscadet: Muscadet is a dry white wine from the Loire Valley in France that pairs well with oysters. The wine’s minerality and acidity complement the brininess of the oysters.
• Gin and tonic: Gin and tonic is a refreshing cocktail that pairs well with oysters. The cocktail’s botanical notes complement the dish, while its effervescence cleanses the palate.
• Pilsner or Lager: A pilsner or lager pairs well with briny oysters.

Where Can You Buy Ninigret Pond Oysters?

Ninigret Landing- You can order these hyper-local oysters from their farmstand.