Quick Facts
- Species: Pacific Oyster (Crassostrea gigas)
- Cultivation Method: Farmed, 12-18 month grow-out period
- Size: 2.5-4 inches
- Seasonality: Year-round
- Flavor Profile: Mild brine, creamy texture, cucumber notes, and a sweet, melon-like finish
What Are Pearl Point Oysters?
Pearl Point Oysters stand out as a unique delicacy among Pacific Northwest oysters, cultivated in the pristine waters of Netarts Bay, Oregon. These oysters are farmed using the tray suspension method, which sets them apart from their bottom-cultured counterparts 4. This cultivation technique results in oysters with beautiful shells and deep cups, protected from predators, mud, sand, and silt throughout their lives.
The distinctive flavor profile of Pearl Point Oysters captivates oyster enthusiasts. With a medium brininess and a delightful melon finish, these oysters offer a clean, sweet, and light taste that reflects their protected upbringing4. Their tender meat provides a unique textural experience, setting them apart from other Pacific oyster varieties.While Pearl Point Oysters are a treat for the palate, they present a challenge for oyster shuckers. The suspension method that protects them throughout their lives also results in brittle shells, making them more difficult to open than their bottom-cultured counterparts4. This characteristic adds to their allure, making them a prized selection for those who appreciate the art of oyster preparation and consumption.
How Did Pearl Point Oysters Get Their Name?
Pearl Point Oysters get their name from the glistening, pearl-like sheen of their interior shells. The term “Point” refers to the coastal headlands where these oysters are commonly found and harvested. The reflective, smooth nacre inside the shell resembles the appearance of a pearl, giving these oysters their distinctive name.
Local harvesters noticed the consistency in these oysters’ gleaming shells and began calling them “Pearl Point.” The name reflects not only the oysters’ appearance but also the high-quality nature of the waters they thrive in. This name has since become synonymous with purity, brilliance, and coastal tradition.
About Pearl Point Oyster Company
Pearl Point Oyster Company, located in Netarts Bay, Oregon, cultivates Pearl Point Oysters. Liu and Mark Wiegardt from Whiskey Creek Shellfish Hatchery acquired the company in 2012. This acquisition included a 72-acre oyster bed 4. This acquisition marked a new chapter in the company’s long history of oyster farming along the Oregon Coast.
The company’s roots trace back to 1923 when Steele and John Barnes purchased the Pearl Oyster Company from J. Emy Tsukimoto and Joe Miyagi, establishing Rock Point Oyster 1. Over the years, the business evolved. It eventually caught the attention of the Wiegardts. They brought new expertise to enhance operations and develop cultivation practices. Pearl Point Oysters employs the tray suspension method for farming. They cultivate Pacific Oysters (Crassostrea gigas) in the pristine waters of Netarts Bay 3. This method involves suspending oysters in mesh trays in deep, cold waters, protecting them from predators and environmental challenges. The farm benefits from the unique environment. Two small mountain streams feed into the bay, contributing to the oysters’ distinct flavor profile.
The company focuses on producing high-quality oysters with deep cups and a delicate, sweet taste. They meticulously manage each step of the process, from cleaning to seeding in the “Pearl Lab,” ensuring premium quality 1. Pearl Point Oysters are available year-round. They have gained a reputation among seafood enthusiasts. These oysters are known for their exceptional taste and quality 3.
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Pearl Point Oysters Information
Oyster: Pearl Point
Species: Crassostrea gigas
Cultivation Method: Farmed
Culture Method: This method involves suspension tray farming in deep cold waters.
Seasonality: Sept. to April
Size: 2.75″
Salinity: 24-30 ppt
Appearance: Small, Green and purple ridged, fluted shells with deep cups.
Flavor Profile: Characterized by plump meat, medium brininess, sweetness, and a clean melon finish. These oysters offer a unique taste experience with a balance of sweetness and brininess.
If you like pearl point oysters, then check out these similar varieties!
Location
Pearl Point Oysters are cultivated in Netarts Bay, Oregon, along the scenic Oregon Coast. This location offers ideal conditions for oyster farming. It is particularly suitable for Pacific Oysters (Crassostrea gigas). This is the species used for Pearl Point Oysters 39.
Netarts Bay’s environment is uniquely suited for oyster cultivation. The bay is fed by two small mountain streams. This creates a pristine ecosystem that contributes to the oysters’ distinct flavor profile 3. The water quality in Netarts Bay is exceptional. Liu Wiegardt describes it as “one of the cleanest bays on the West Coast” 5.
Several environmental factors make Netarts Bay beneficial for oyster growth and prosperity. The water temperature remains consistently below 70°F, which is optimal for oyster development 1. The bay also experiences good tidal flux, ensuring a constant flow of nutrient-rich water. The salinity level in Netarts Bay is around 28 parts per thousand. This provides an ideal balance for oyster growth 1. These conditions contribute to the production of high-quality oysters with deep cups and a delicate, sweet taste 3.
Suggested Beverage Pairings
- Amontillado Sherry – This pairing complements the plump and creamy texture of the oyster with big cucumber and melon notes.
- Valdespino Family Manzanilla or Fino Ynocente – These options are excellent choices to enhance the flavor profile.
- Camino Roca Txakolina – This beverage can be a refreshing pairing, enhancing their sweet and clean melon finish.
- Muscadet – A classic choice that pairs well with the brininess of oysters, enhancing their natural flavors.
- Champagne or sparkling wine – The effervescence and acidity of Champagne can complement the sweetness and clean finish. As a result, this creates a delightful contrast in flavors.
Where Can I Buy Pearl Point Oysters?
- Pearl Point Oyster Company – offers a selection of oysters with a flavor profile that includes plump meat, medium brininess, sweetness, and a clean melon finish. These oysters are cultivated using the suspension tray method in Netarts Bay, providing a unique taste experience for oyster enthusiast
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