Pemaquid Oysters

Pemaquid oysters are a cherished gem of the New England coast, renowned for their exceptional taste and distinct salty flavor. The Damariscotta River in Maine provides farmers with the perfect conditions for cultivating these delicious bivalves. The cold, nutrient-rich currents and ideal salinity levels create optimal growth conditions. Named after the picturesque Pemaquid Peninsula that juts into the Gulf of Maine, these oysters have earned a reputation for their exceptional quality and unique flavor profile, making them a sought-after delicacy among seafood connoisseurs.

What sets these oysters apart is their crisp and clean taste, characterized by a delightful balance of saltiness and sweetness. Whether enjoyed raw on the half-shell, grilled, or incorporated into various culinary creations, They offer a quintessential taste of the Maine coastline and a sensory journey that captivates the palate. With their rich maritime heritage and dedication to sustainable aquaculture practices, Pemaquid oysters are a testament to the region’s commitment to preserving its natural bounty while providing a truly exceptional culinary experience.

About Pemaquid Oyster Co.

Pemaquid Oyster Farm, situated along the scenic Damariscotta River in Maine, is a renowned aquaculture operation specializing in cultivating Pemaquid oysters. This farm embodies the rich maritime heritage and dedication to sustainable seafood practices that define the region’s seafood industry. Established in a pristine marine environment, the farm benefits from the river’s cold, nutrient-rich waters, creating an ideal habitat for oyster growth.

This oyster farm follows environmentally responsible practices to ensure the health of the ecosystem and the quality of its oysters. The farmers have developed innovative techniques to cultivate oysters in floating bags, which enables the oysters to flourish in the river’s currents while reducing their impact on the riverbed. This approach produces oysters with exceptional flavor and contributes to preserving the river’s natural biodiversity.

The farm’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its farming methods. They actively work to protect and restore the Damariscotta River, collaborating with conservation organizations and local communities. Through their dedication to responsible aquaculture, Pemaquid Oyster Farm delivers top-tier oysters to seafood enthusiasts and is a model for environmentally-conscious seafood production in the region.

Pemaquid Oysters Information

Oyster: Pemaquid

Species: Crassostrea Virginica

Cultivation Method: Grown for two to four years in the frigid, deep waters of the Damariscotta River. They harvested year-round and held in the cold, salty Class A waters of Clark’s Cove near the river’s mouth. Before sale, Pemaquid oysters are plunged into the cold, oceanic waters of coastal Maine to hold and purge.

Seasonality: April – December

Size: 3.5″+

Culture Method: The oyster seed grows on growing beds on the bottom of the river.

Salinity: 32-34 ppt

Appearance: Pemaquid oysters have a slight tear-drop shape and white insides. They are big, strong-shelled oysters.

Flavor Profile: They are mildly sweet with a clean, lemony zest flavor and solid brininess. They have a unique, sweet, lemony finish and are wildly briny.

Location

Pemaquid oysters are mainly located on the Damariscotta River in Maine, USA. The specific oyster farms that cultivate Pemaquid oysters may vary. Due to the favorable environmental conditions and pristine waters, the Damariscotta River region is home to many oysters with a unique flavor.

Suggested Beverage Pairings

1. Mezcal cocktail: A great pairing for these oysters is a mezcal, Luxardo, and Punt e Mes drink with smoky and fruity notes.
2. Weez Ale: A Weez Ale from Maine Brewing Company, with its hoppy and malty notes, is the perfect pairing for these oysters.
3. Louis Roederer’s Brut Premier: Champagne is a classic pairing for seafood and tastes incredibly delicious with oysters. Louis Roederer’s Brut Premier is a recommended pairing for Pemaquid oysters.
4. Muscadet Serve et Maine: Muscadet Serve et Maine is the quintessential pairing for oysters. Its mineral, chalk, and saline qualities complement the Pemaquid’s mild sweetness and grassy-lemon finish.
5. Strawberry lemonade: Strawberry lemonade is a great non-alcoholic drink to pair with Pemaquid oysters.
6. Arnold Palmer: For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, the Arnold Palmer (a mixture of iced tea and lemonade) is a great option that pairs well with Pemaquid oysters.

Where Can I Buy Pemaquid Oysters?

You can buy Pemaquid oysters from the following places:

1. The Maine Oyster Company: You can buy these oysters online and directly ship them overnight to your door.
2. Island Creek Oysters: Available for a limited time only from Island Creek Oysters.
3. Graffam Bros Seafood: Held in the cold, briny Class A waters of Clark’s Cove near the river’s mouth, where they obtain their distinctive, clean, salty, and refreshing flavor.
4. Pemaquid Oyster Company: Pemaquid Oyster Company is the exclusive purveyor of Pemaquid® Oysters. Founded in 1986, they produce high-quality, cultivated American oysters for the half-shell market without the use of a clutch.