Phantom Creek Oysters

Phantom Creek Oysters are a variety of Pacific Oyster (Crassostrea gigas) cultivated near Vancouver Island, British Columbia, specifically in the Strait of Georgia at Cortes Island. They undergo a unique farming process called the suspension tray to beach method. Initially, these oysters grow in a pampered tray suspension environment and then transfer to a beach cultured environment for the final six months before harvesting. This method toughens the oysters, resulting in stronger shells and firmer meats.

These oysters are available from September to July and can grow up to 3 inches. Phantom Creek Oysters boast deep cups and petite, plump meats, offering a mild flavor with a clean finish. They are recognized for their quality and are a part of the diverse Pacific Northwest oyster family, which includes many other varieties with distinct flavors and cultivation methods.

Phantom Creek Oysters are also part of a sustainable seafood choice, contributing to the health of marine ecosystems by filtering water and providing habitats for other species. They also offer nutritional benefits, being low in calories but rich in essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids.

The Legend of Phantom Creek

The name “Phantom Creek” has an interesting story behind it, which dates back to the early history of the area. As per the caretakers at Phantom Ranch in the 1920s, the name originated from a creepy incident involving a prospector named John Shane. He was killed by a falling stone at the mouth of a side canyon up the creek. After this occurrence, people reported seeing a strange light on the wall where Shane had been killed. The light resembled someone carrying a lantern that would brighten and dim intermittently. Due to the ghostly appearance of this light, the canyon got its name as “Phantom Canyon.” Consequently, the name “Phantom Creek” was derived from this canyon.

About Mac’s Oysters LTD.

Mac’s Oysters Ltd. is a family-owned business with a storied history in the shellfish industry, dating back to its establishment in 1947. The McLellan family founded the company, pioneers in modern shellfish aquaculture in British Columbia. The family’s legacy began with Joseph McLellan, who introduced oyster seed from Japan to the beaches around Fanny Bay. Essentially laying the groundwork for a significant industry in the region.

Located in the heart of Baynes Sound, Mac’s Oysters Ltd. has become a cornerstone of the Pacific Canadian shellfish industry. They are renowned for producing world-class oysters and clams. The company demonstrates its commitment to quality and sustainability through its farming practices. Not to mention the help of the pristine environment of Baynes Sound. Currently, Baynes Sound sustains some of Canada’s most productive clam and oyster beaches.

Gordy McLellan manages Mac’s Oysters Ltd. today and continues the family tradition of shellfish farming. The company processes a significant portion of British Columbia’s farmed oysters and clams and distributes them domestically and internationally. Despite challenges such as the norovirus outbreak in B.C. oysters, Mac’s Oysters Ltd. has maintained its reputation for high-quality shellfish. The company thrives due to work ethic and rigorous safety standards under the Canadian Shellfish Sanitation Program.

Visit Mac’s Oysters Ltd.’s company website for more insights and updates. Stay connected and follow their journey on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to catch the latest news, delicious recipes, and behind-the-scenes looks at how they bring the finest shellfish from Tide to the table. Don’t miss out on the freshest updates from Mac’s Oysters Ltd.

Phantom Creek Oyster Information

Oyster: Phantom Creek

Species: Crassostrea gigas

Cultivation Method: Initially raised in suspension trays, then transferred to beach culture for the final growth phase.

Seasonality: Available from September to July.

Size: up to 3″

Culture Method: Suspension tray to beach method

Salinity: 26-30 ppt

Appearance:  Purple-grey/green with clean shells. They have deep cups and are characterized by their petite size.

Flavor Profile: A briny start followed by a sweet finish. These oysters are noted for their petite, plump meat, which offers a mild flavor and a clean finish.

Location

Baynes Sound, located in British Columbia, is a prime location for oyster farming due to its unique environmental conditions. The water quality and salinity levels are just right for oysters, with the narrow channel between Vancouver Island and the mainland contributing to moderate tides and swift currents that keep the waters clean and full of nutrients. These nutrients, brought to the surface by upwelling currents, foster a rich phytoplankton population that oysters feed on. Oyster farmers customize their cultivation techniques, such as bags-to-beach and beach-cultured methods, to the specific geographical features of the sound. This allows them to efficiently manage the growth of oysters.

Additionally, the area is subject to rigorous environmental monitoring and sustainable aquaculture practices, ensuring the long-term health of the marine ecosystem. This includes implementing a shellfish management plan to halt harvesting to prevent contamination after significant rainfall temporarily. Moreover, Baynes Sound benefits from a strong support system within the aquaculture industry and ongoing research from institutions like the Hakai Institute, which contributes to the continuous improvement of oyster farming practices and environmental stewardship.

Suggested Beverage Pairings

1. Valdespino Family Manzanilla Sherry – This sherry offers a crisp and slightly saline flavor that complements the mild and clean taste of Phantom Creek oysters, enhancing the oyster’s subtle brininess without overpowering it.
2. Chablis, Domaine William Fèvre – The delicate flavor of Phantom Creek oysters pairs well with Chablis, which is famous for its crisp acidity and mineral qualities. The mineral notes in the wine echo the natural marine environment of the oysters, creating a harmonious pairing.
3. Camino Roca Altxerri Txakolina – This Basque wine exhibits sharp acidity and slight effervescence. This cuts through the mildness of the oysters and highlights their sweet finish, making each bite refreshing.
4. Coppertail Brewing Captain Jack’s Stone Crab Stout – For a beer pairing, this stout from Coppertail Brewing offers a contrast with its rich and slightly sweet flavors, which can complement the clean and mild taste of the oysters, providing a balance between richness and freshness.
5. Negroni Sbagliato (With Extra Prosecco) – This cocktail’s bubbly and slightly bitter profile can cleanse the palate between oysters. At the same time, the vermouth adds an herbal touch that pairs nicely with the subtle flavors of the oysters.

Where Can I Buy Phantom Creek Oysters?

1. Mac’s Oysters Ltd. is a well-established shellfish farm on Canada’s Pacific Coast, specifically in Fanny Bay, British Columbia. The farm is known for producing a variety of high-quality oysters, including Phantom Creek Oysters.