Norumbega Oysters

Norumbega oysters are a type of oyster that are grown in the Damariscotta River in Maine. They are known for their big, sweet, and incredibly tender meat. The liqueur is pleasantly salty, but the smoky sweetness of the oyster quickly washes out the flavor of the salty brine.

 The long grow method and cold Maine waters create a beautifully strong shell. Scuba divers harvest these oysters, and they have a fine, smooth texture. Norumbega oysters initially have a sweet, buttery taste, which soon turns into a briny finish. 

About the Farm

The Damariscotta River is known for its oysters, and growing up in an area surrounded by rich aquaculture history, Eric knew as early as high school that a career in aquaculture was right for him. He and his wife, Kellie, bring over 20 years of expertise in growing and harvesting shellfish on their family-run farm. Norumbega Oyster Farm was started in 2006 and has grown in size every year since!

These oysters come from the Damariscotta River in Maine and are grown by Kellie and Eric Peters. The Peters family owns Norumbega Oyster, Inc.. This family-owned business pays utmost attention to carefully growing and harvesting oysters while respecting the river’s environment, animals, and waters. Eric Peters is a Bates College alumnus who started Norumbega Oyster, Inc. to diversify his clientele and boost revenues.

Norumbega Oysters Information

Oyster: Norumbega

Species: Crassostrea Virginica

Cultivation Method: Divers swim down with rakes and harvest when ready.

Seasonality: Fall through Spring

Size: 3-4″

Culture Method: Bottom cultured. These oysters do the opposite of other farms and start in suspended bags. Then, they transfer to the bottom.

Salinity: 20-30 ppt

Appearance: Have a variable tear-drop appearance. They are some of the larger oysters you’ll find anywhere. The oysters have a delicate, smooth shell.

Flavor Profile: Big, sweet, and incredibly tender. They have a high burst of salt upfront with sugar and zinc. The liqueur is pleasantly salty, but the smoky sweetness of the oyster quickly washes out the flavor of the salty brine.

Location

Norumbega oysters are located in the Damariscotta River in mid-coast Maine

Suggested Beverage Pairings

1. Champagne: The effervescence and acidity of dry sparkling wines can complement the saltiness and provide a refreshing contrast. The bubbles can also enhance the oysters’ flavor. 
2. Muscadet: Muscadet is a classic pairing because of its high salinity and sweet finish. The acidity and minerality of Muscadet can balance the oysters’ flavor and provide a crisp contrast. 
3. Stouts: Stouts can be a good pairing because they are creamy and slightly sweet. The roasted malt flavors can also add complexity to the pairing. 
4. Pilsners or lagers: Lighter beers like pilsners and lagers can be a good match for Norumbega oysters because they don’t overpower the delicate flavor of the seafood. The crispness and carbonation of these beers can also help cleanse the palate. 
5. Citrusy drinks: The sweetness and acidity of citrusy drinks can complement the sweetness and tanginess of Norumbega oysters. The fruitiness can also add a new dimension to the pairing. 
6. Chablis: Chablis is a classic pairing for oysters and can be a good match for Norumbega oysters because of their delicate, smooth shell and sweet finish. The pure chardonnay character of Chablis can balance the oysters’ flavor and provide a mineral contrast. 

Where can you Buy Norumbega Oysters?

Norumbega oysters can be purchased from various locations in Maine, as well as online. Here are some places where you can buy Norumbega oysters:

• Island Creek Oysters: You can buy Norumbega oysters online from Island Creek Oysters. They ship using FedEx Overnight service and offer free shipping on orders over $99. The oysters come from four lease sites totaling 11 acres, growing from 5 feet at the shallowest to 28 feet.
• Graffam Bros Seafood: You can buy Norumbega oysters from Graffam Bros Seafood, which is located in Rockport, Maine. The oysters are bottom-grown in the Damariscotta River and harvested by scuba divers. They cost $1.85 each.
• The Maine Oyster Company: You can buy Norumbega oysters online from The Maine Oyster Company[3]. They offer free overnight shipping and sell Norumbega oysters in quantities ranging from 12 to 200. The oysters are medium-sized and have a moderate salinity and sweetness.
• Norumbega Oyster: You can find a list of locations that sell Norumbega oysters on the Norumbega Oyster website. Some places include Bow Street Market in Freeport, Eventide Oyster Co., and Harbor Fish Market in Portland.