Rochambeau Oysters

Rochambeau Oysters, produced by the Rappahannock Oyster Company, are distinct from other oysters due to their unique flavor profile and growing conditions. They grow near the mouth of the York River in the Chesapeake Bay’s median salt range, which gives them a sweet and mildly briny taste with a clean, crisp finish.

Their salinity is mid-range, which contributes to their umami-rich and complex flavor. This salinity level is influenced by their proximity to the sea, which delivers a greater bite of salt than the Rappahannock.

Furthermore, Rochambeau Oysters are cultivated in off-bottom cages, a method that can influence their taste and texture. This cultivation method, combined with the specific nutrients in the water where they grow, contributes to their unique flavor.

Compared to other oysters, Rochambeaus are the quintessential Bay oyster or the “Goldilocks” oyster due to their perfect blend of sweet and salt.

About Rappahannock Oyster Company

The Rappahannock Oyster Co. has a rich history, dating back to 1899 when James Arthur Croxton founded it. The company unofficially began when Croxton leased 2 acres of Rappahannock River bottom. The business faced significant challenges, including the destruction of oyster beds by Hurricane Hazel in 1954 and the subsequent hurricanes Connie and Diane in 1955.

After the passing of William Croxton in 1991, the company ceased operations. However, in 2001, cousins Ryan and Travis Croxton, the founder’s great-grandsons, were informed about their family’s century-old oyster leases. They decided to take over the leases and revive the company. On March 23, 2002, Rappahannock Oyster Co. was officially reborn by purchasing 3,000 oyster seeds.

The Croxton cousins introduced sustainable aquaculture practices, which helped the company become one of the first commercially viable aquaculture operations. They opened a tasting room at their farm in Topping, Virginia, 2011 and an oyster bar in Washington, DC 2012. The company has since received national acclaim and operates several restaurants celebrating the Chesapeake Bay and its native shellfish.

The company harvests three oyster varieties: Rappahannock, Rochambeau, and Olde Salts, in addition to Olde Salt Clams. They ship out more than 180,000 oysters per week. The company runs six restaurants, among which the Rappahannock Oyster Bar stands out. It has been featured in the Wall Street Journal as one of the Five Outstanding and was recognized as one of the Best New Restaurants by Esquire. The company’s restaurants are in various locations, including Topping, Virginia; Richmond, Virginia; Charleston, South Carolina; Los Angeles, California; and Washington, D.C.

For more information on Rappahannock Oyster Company or any other inquiries, you can reach them on their company website or Instagram.

Rochambeau Oysters Information

Oyster: Rochambeau

Species: Crassostrea Virginica

Cultivation Method: Farmed 18-24 months.

Seasonality: Available year-round, but peak season is late fall through early spring.

Size: approx 3″

Culture Method: Off-bottom cages are used by the growers to cultivate Rochambeau Oysters. This enables them to have better control over the growth and quality of the oysters. This method also helps protect the oysters from predators and reduce disease risk. 

Salinity: 22-26 ppt

Appearance: The shell is a classic bivalve shape, often reflecting the minerals present in the water where they grow. The color of the shell can vary, but it often has a mix of white, gray, and green hues. Inside the shell, the meat of the Rochambeau Oyster is plump and juicy, with a color ranging from creamy white to a light tan or gray.

Flavor Profile: A unique flavor profile that is umami-rich and complex. This gives them mildly salty and briny notes upfront with a sweet and crisp finish. The meat is toothsome and snappy and sits in a pool of salty liquor.

Location

Rochambeau Oysters are cultivated near the mouth of the York River in the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia.

Suggested Bevrage Pairings

1. SweetWater American Brown Ale – This deep copper-colored, mild malt beer is designed to be a session beer with a smooth finish. It pairs well with the Rochambeau Oysters’ mildly salty and sweet notes.
2. Blueberry Wheat Ale – A unique, lighter style, enhanced with a hint of fresh blueberry, offers a unique contrast to the Rochambeau Oysters’ mild saltiness and sweet notes.
3. Lustau Dry Amontillado – This dry Amontillado sherry from Lustau, “Los Arcos”, Solera Reserva, pairs well with Rochambeau Oysters. Its nutty and rich flavor complements the oysters’ briny sweetness.
4. Moët & Chandon Champagne – The effervescence and brightness of this Champagne enhance the flavor of Rochambeau Oysters, making it a luxurious pairing.
5. French 75 Cocktail – A classic cocktail made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne, the French 75 offers a balance of tart and sweet that complements the Rochambeau Oysters’ flavor profile.

Where Can I Buy Rochabeau Oysters?

Online Retailers:

1. Rappahannock Oyster Co. – They offer Rochambeau oysters on their website.
2. WebstaurantStore – They sell a 300-count case of live Rochambeau oysters from Rappahannock Oyster Co. for $184.99.
3. Toast Platform – You can order a dozen Rochambeau oysters from Rochambeau for $42.00.
4. Publix Super Markets – They carry Rochambeau oysters, but availability may vary by store location.