Nonesuch Emeralds

Quick Facts

• Flavor Profile: A blend of briny intensity with a hint of sweetness and cucumber-like crispness.
• Location: Farmed in pristine Casco Bay, Maine, benefiting from nutrient-rich cold waters.
• Size: Medium, averaging 3 to 4 inches, ideal for raw consumption.
• Salinity: Approximately 28-30 ppt, offering a robust marine flavor.
• Unique Feature: Known for their vibrant emerald green shells and deep cups.

What Are Nonesuch Emeralds?

Nonesuch Emerald oysters stand out as a unique delicacy from the nutrient-rich estuarial waters of the Nonesuch River in Scarborough, Maine 1. These oysters offer a distinctive balance of brine, sweetness, and minerality, setting them apart from their counterparts 1. Their location within a nature conservancy boasts a Grade A water classification, contributing to their exceptional quality 1.

The Nonesuch Emeralds, cultivated by Abigail Carroll, are finished free-range on the riverbed, developing sturdy shells and hearty, rich meat with characteristic brown edges 3. This bottom-finishing technique results in an elegant shape and a well-rounded flavor profile that has earned them awards for their balance 3. Their emerald green shells make them visually striking on raw bar displays 3.

These oysters are so beautifully balanced that some chefs, like David Siegal of Cull & Pistol in New York, believe using them in cooked applications would be a disservice 3. Siegal considers Nonesuch oysters to be “pound-for-pound” one of the finest in the land, serving them as a counterpoint to larger, meatier varieties 3. Their unique characteristics make them a favorite among oyster enthusiasts and a testament to the diverse flavors found in Maine’s waters.

How Did Nonesuch Emeralds Get Their Name?

Nonesuch Emerald oysters derive their name from two distinct aspects of their origin and appearance. The “Nonesuch” part comes from the Nonesuch River in Scarborough, Maine, where these oysters are cultivated 3. This nutrient-rich estuarial location contributes significantly to their unique flavor profile.

The “Emerald” in their name refers to the vibrant green color of their shells 17. This emerald hue makes them visually appealing and distinguishes them from other oyster varieties. The green coloration is likely due to algae growth on the shells, which is encouraged by the farm’s bottom-culture method 37.

Abigail Carroll, known as Maine’s Oyster Lady, farms these oysters using a “free range” approach, allowing them to develop naturally on the riverbed 3. This cultivation method not only contributes to their distinctive appearance but also enhances their flavor, resulting in a well-balanced taste that has earned them recognition among oyster enthusiasts.

About Nonesuch Oyster Company

Nonesuch Oyster Farm, founded by Abigail Carroll in 2008, cultivates Pine Point Petite oysters in Scarborough, Maine. Carroll, a former investment banker, started the farm with no prior aquaculture experience, driven by a desire for a career change and a passion for sustainable food production.

The farm’s location at the confluence of the Nonesuch and Scarborough Rivers provides a unique ecosystem. Tidal flows from the Gulf of Maine mix with freshwater from the rivers, creating ideal conditions for oyster growth. This environment contributes to the oysters’ distinctive flavor profile, combining brine, sweetness, and seagrass notes.

Nonesuch uses a floating bag system for oyster cultivation. They suspend mesh bags containing young oysters at the water’s surface, allowing the oysters to feed on nutrient-rich phytoplankton. During winter, they move the oysters to submerged crates to protect them from ice.

The farm faces challenges typical to Maine aquaculture, including harsh winters and predators like green crabs. Despite these obstacles, Nonesuch has grown into a successful operation, supplying Pine Point Petites to restaurants and markets along the East Coast.

Nonesuch Oyster Farm emphasizes sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. Their oysters help filter water, improving local ecosystem health. The farm also participates in community outreach, offering tours and educational programs to promote understanding of aquaculture and marine conservation.

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Oyster enthusiasts, dive into the world of Nonesuch Oyster Farm! Get a behind-the-scenes look at their sustainable farming practices in Scarborough, Maine, and discover the rich flavors of these exceptional oysters.

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Nonesuch Emeralds Oysters Information

Oyster: Nonesuch Emerald

Species: Crassostrea virginica (eastern oyster)

Cultivation Method: Farmed; 18-24 months in suspended cages.

Size: 3-4 inches (medium sized)

Seasonality: Year-round

Culture Method: Bottom-culture, free-range on riverbed

Salinity: 28-30 ppt

Appearance: distinctive emerald green shells ringed with pure snowy white, creating a visually striking appearance. Their shells are fluted, deep-cupped, with a fanned shape. The emerald green shells are complemented by hearty, rich meats with distinctive brown edges.
Flavor Profile:  A bright, balanced flavor profile that harmoniously blends sweetness and brine. Their taste is characterized by light, super briny notes complemented by subtle grassy undertones. The firm meat provides a satisfying bite, delivering a clean, crisp finish that lingers pleasantly on the palate.

If you like Nonesuch Emerald Oysters, then check out the similar varieties!

• Blue Hill Bay Oysters
• Mirada Bay Oysters
• Race Point Oysters
• Rock Hole Oysters
• Salty Mainer Oysters

Location

Nonesuch Emerald oysters are cultivated in the nutrient-rich estuarial waters of the Nonesuch River in Scarborough, Maine. This location is adjacent to one of Maine’s largest salt marshes and features sandy, shallow waters, creating an ideal environment for oyster farming. The farm operates within a nature conservancy, ensuring pristine water quality that supports the oysters’ growth and development 135.

The estuarial nature of the Nonesuch River provides a mix of fresh and saltwater, which is essential for oyster cultivation. The high salinity from the Atlantic Ocean combined with nutrient-rich freshwater promotes algae growth, a primary food source for oysters. Additionally, the shallow waters warm quickly under the sun, further enhancing algae production and providing an abundant food supply to sustain healthy oyster populations 135.

Another critical environmental factor is the sandy riverbed where Nonesuch Emeralds are bottom-planted. This substrate allows the oysters to develop strong shells and hearty meats while interacting with their natural surroundings. The intertidal zone’s tidal movements also ensure consistent water flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients necessary for robust oyster growth 345.

The combination of pristine water quality, optimal salinity levels, nutrient-rich algae, and a supportive riverbed makes this location exceptionally beneficial for oyster farming. These factors not only contribute to the oysters’ physical development but also enhance their flavor profile, making Nonesuch Emeralds highly sought after by chefs and oyster enthusiasts alike 135.

Suggested Beverage Pairings

1. Negroni Sbagliato – This cocktail, made with sweet vermouth, Campari, and sparkling wine, offers a refreshing twist on the classic Negroni. The light bitterness and effervescence complement the oysters’ briny sweetness while enhancing their delicate flavors.
2. Blood Orange Radler – A mix of blood orange juice and lager, this drink provides a vibrant hue and a sweet-tart flavor profile. The citrus notes in the Radler harmonize with the oysters’ natural sweetness, making it a refreshing choice for warm weather.
3. Suze Tonic – This cocktail combines Suze, a French apéritif known for its herbal and bitter qualities, with tonic water. The light bitterness and refreshing bubbles of the Suze Tonic enhance the oysters’ salinity and provide a crisp counterpoint to their rich texture.
4. Feta-Brine Martini – This unique twist on the classic martini incorporates feta brine for a tangy kick. The salty, savory notes from the feta-stuffed olives pair beautifully with the oysters, enhancing their briny essence while adding an intriguing flavor dimension.
5. Imperial Opal – A cocktail featuring La Clandestine Absinthe Blanche and Varnelli L’Anise Secco, this drink offers delicate herbaceous and anise notes. Its complexity complements the oysters’ flavor profile without overpowering them, creating a sophisticated pairing experience.

Where Can I Buy Nonesuch Emerald Oysters?

1. Glidden Point Oyster Farms – Offers Nonesuch Emeralds with specific details about size and farming technique. Their website provides direct sales options for these oysters.
2. SoPo Seafood – Offers overnight delivery of Nonesuch Oysters from their Portland, Maine wharf location. They provide 12, 50, and 100 count bags with free overnight shipping options.
   

References

1. Carroll, Abigail. “Nonesuch Emerald Oysters.” Maine Oyster Company, Maine Oyster Company, www.maineoystercompany.com. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.
2. “Nonesuch Emeralds.” Island Creek Oysters, Island Creek Oysters, www.islandcreekoysters.com. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.
3. “Nonesuch Oysters.” SoPo Seafood, SoPo Seafood, www.soposeafood.com. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.
4. “Nonesuch Emeralds.” Glidden Point Oyster Farms, Glidden Point Oyster Farms, www.gliddenpoint.com. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.