The crisp, acidic flavour of dry sparkling wines- whether prosecco, cava, or any other iteration, work splendidly with oysters, cutting through the creaminess of the meat and singing with the salinity. We are a London and French Riviera based yacht brokerage offering crewed luxury yacht charters and boat rentals in the south of France, throughout the Mediterranean and beyond. It is the Damariscottas crisp, clean waters that allow the oysters to escape the sand and silt. These farmed oysters are harvested in a salt pond to give them their characterful, briney flavour and slightly sweet finish. In addition to eating and drinking with locals, he learns about their traditions and their cuisine. The oysters are said to have a unique flavour as they combine the saltiness of the Mediterranean with the sweet freshness of the River Ebro. Going Deep Into Oyster Country. For something deliciously salty and fleshy with a fruity aftertaste, try Bouzigues oysters, which are farmed in a saltwater lake called the Etang de Thau. The country is well-known for its oyster farms, which are an important part of the French culinary culture. Oyster regions of France Normandy Oysters Known for its highly iodised and fleshy oysters. And if the world is your oyster then Galway, on Irelands west coast, is your home. Paimpol: La creuse fineHeading northeast to the rugged Cote dArmor area, discover the remarkable local oysters of Paimpol which are raised in the middle of the sea and celebrated for their rich flavors and satisfying, fleshy texture. The half-shell oyster is a standard unit of purchase in these parts because oysters are abundant. According to First We Feast, each one of these oysters can measure up to 7.09 inches long and weigh up to 2.2 pounds. Olron and Marnenet oyster La Fine (the fine) is a type of oyster that is finished in old salt marshes. The number of oysters in France varies from 1000 to 6, with the smaller the number, the larger the oyster. Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Monte-Carlo Music Masters showcases outstanding musical talents, Winter Tipples on the French Riviera : Where to Enjoy Vin Chaud and Other Wintery Treats, Michelin Stars and Rooftop Bars : 11 Things to do on a Cannes Yacht Charter, 3 reasons to charter a yacht to the South of France, The most fun toy for superyachts: Reverso, Discover The Best French Riviera 2022 Events, Discover ultimate luxury on a Monaco yacht charter, Why you should consider a Cannes Film Festival Yacht Charter, Best Affordable Restaurants on the Cote dAzur, Why you should charter a yacht on the French Riviera this September, Best Affordable Restaurants on the Cote d'Azur, MY Splendid Isolation : Why A Charter Yacht is a Haven from Coronavirus. If you like buttery Chardonnays, these pair well . France (7) Gulf Coast (15) Hood Canal (20) Ireland (3) Long Island Sound (16) Maine/NH (20) . In 2017, the average price of fresh oysters was between 7.1 and 7.4 euros. Wild oysters are well-known in the northwestern harbor city of Brest. Located next to a multi-deck boat house on Skull Creek, this landmark waterfront restaurant features an extensive cocktail and food menu. Are grown at just 10 to the square yard. The country has a long history of oyster cultivation, and today there are dozens of different types of French oysters to choose from. Keep in mind that the tides here raise and lower the water by about 15 meters. Artisanal oyster farmers and superb gastronomic restaurants and bars specialising in the delicacy thrive in Aquitaine, where prestige meets century-long traditions. The arctic temperatures and great depths of the southern waters in New Zealand contribute to the Bluff Oysters' rich and succulent flavours. Although theyre raised in a few other coastal areas, plates are primarily linked with Brittany. The type of oyster, the size of the oyster, the freshness of the oyster, and the taste of the oyster all play a role in making this determination. If youre looking for the best oysters in France, head to Marennes. In the 19th century, there were three oyster capitals in the world: Paris, London and New York. In particular, the French coast is famous for its oysters, particularly in Bouziques, France. Review. The most important part of the Texas oyster harvest is in Galveston Bay. If youre going to eat raw oysters, allow 6 to 8 oysters per person, and 5 if theyre going to be served warm. Many countries produce lots of wonderful oysters. Best for Chesapeake Bay Oysters: Rappahannock Oyster Co. - VA. Best for Themed Bushels: Real Oyster Cult. Possibly the most famous oyster of them all are the Speciales Gillardeau, grown by the Gillardeau family near La Rochelle in Western France. There, their golden flesh firms and the shellfish attain their full wild flavour. Ask anywhere in New Orleans and they'll say Gulf oysters are the absolute best. Bourdain enjoys oysters from the coast in both regions, as well as seafood from the local region. (N.B. Tut, tut.). At bistros and brasseries around the country, you'll find raw oysters on the menu-and many believe French oysters to be the best in the . On your private tour of the region and its noteworthy oyster farms, you can enjoy informal but authentic tastings at local sellers where you can order a few oysters accompanied by a glass of crisp white or try them cooked in apple cider and/or calvados, a local specialty. Among the best Oysters in the world, French Oysters fall into 2 categories: plates (flat shells) and creuse (curved shell). The caramelized oysters are served in . Oysters taste different depending on where they were grown and how they were processed. Let your tastebuds be your guide! Have we managed to intrigue your palate? The oysters from the glandardeau saucisson are among Frances best oysters, and they rank third among the top three. They are also delicious when cooked with herbs, garlic, or other seasonings. He enjoys the simple pleasures of a seafood dinner in a fishing village such as Plouhinec and the more upscale surroundings of the Cte Blanche Resort in Saint-Malo, both of which are close to his home. The best white wine pairings for oysters are cool-climate, high-acidity wines grown in mineral-rich soils. Ireland's oyster industry is an international powerhouse. Our private tours will unveil a host of secretive, exclusive and authentic places to taste the very best; these are just a couple we recommend in the area. If you want to stay cool this summer, try an aperitif spritz or a Louis Jadot chardonnay, both of which add a touch of sophistication. Arcachon, Pyla-sur-Mer & Cap FerretThe seaside resort town of Arcachon and its magnificent Bay is renowned for its fresh oysters. France controls more than 2,000 miles of coastline, featuring some of the finest oyster beds in the world. French restaurants often offer a perplexing miscellany of oysters, at prices that differ according to shape, size and provenance. La Subhasta Restaurant, where a dozen will cost you35, Picture courtesy of Iakov Filimonov/Shutterstock.com. White Wine: Chablis and Sancerre, if you please. "These are the closest [farmed] oyster to a wild Louisiana oyster that begs to be made into a po'boy.". In order to enjoy oysters like the French, you must immerse yourself in the ocean. The best way to get to Belon, France is by car. They are difficult to grow and are produced in small quantities, and so they are more expensive. Julius Caesar claimed that Scotlands Loch Ryan oysters were the best in the world, or so the story goes. The biggest oysters are best used for cooking something like an oyster stuffing, which my grandma loved to make for Thanksgiving (and I always managed to hide the heaping scoop of oyster stuffing or slip it in to napkin). Because of their unique flavor and texture, this type of oyster will satisfy even the most ardent oyster lover. The oysters are harvested and sorted by size after being hand-harvested. The name may not mean much to some, but to oyster fans, Tarbouriech oysters are among the very best in the world. The country has a long tradition of oyster farming"L'ostriculture," and eating them, of course. As an affiliate and publisher, we earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post and third party advertising. Towns such as Plougastel-Dauolas, also nestled on the harbour, are also noted for their wild huitres, which have a particular texture closer to a scallop and are rich in iodine. Aided by the significant tidal difference, the oysters filter plenty of nutrient-rich seawater every day. The oysters from Cancale France are thought to be some of the best oysters in the world and in 1994 Cancale was classified as a 'Site remarquable du got', a town remarkable for the taste of its oysters! Some people prefer a saltier oyster, while others prefer a sweeter oyster. France is Europe's leading producer and consumer of cupped oysters. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Best for Wild Oysters: Glidden Point Oyster Farms - ME. 9. Delta de l'Ebre, Catalonia, Spain When you think of eating oysters in Europe, you may automatically think of France. Catalina, where a dozen oysters will cost you $72. Huitrerie Regis. Oyster Rockefeller, a type of oyster that is popular in the United States, is also a native of France. The plates are flatter in shape and are also known as Belons or Marennes, two of the locales where they are produced. Cancale alone produces 60,000 tons of molluscs, accounting for roughly one-third of the nations total. Winnder of the best savoury oyster dish in 2018 (Denmark Oyster Festival/ (Sren F. Gammelmark)) The Denmark Oyster Festival, held on the Wadden Sea island of Fan, has only been going since 2016, but it has quickly established itself as one of the best in the world. At 20 to the square yard, these oysters mature for two months in salty claires, or marshes, where they filter nutrient-rich water that sometimes turns them green. The best oyster on the planet, the Belon is harvested from all over France and finished in specially designed ponds (claires) in the brackish waters of the Belon River, where the French call garaging. Ask any Frenchman or woman and theyd look at you as if youre crazy to even think they may not be. During your next private, high-luxury tour of Brittany, make sure to spend some time tasting and learning about their fantastic oysters. Coming from the Loire Valley, this cool climate wine is grown on an ancient sea bed known as the Paris basin, and its bracing acidity, citrus notes, and mineral profile matches exceedingly well with oysters. Real Estate The finest villas and apartments on the Cte dAzur and where to find them. You can very rarely go wrong with a Pouilly Fuisse when eating oysters, or a pale, crisp Provencal rose could also be considered. France is home to some of the best oysters in the world. Boat International Media Ltd 2008 - 2022. The harbour views are are charming and memorable, too. Whether youre fancying a gin and tonic, or a shaken martini, the marriage between gin and oysters is a thing of beauty. France produces two types of oysters: the flat oyster (in French known as the hutre plate), a variety native to the region, and the rounded oyster (in French, hutre creuse), which is imported from Japan.Though the flat oyster, also known as Belon, originates here, most of the oysters harvested in Cancale are the rounded style, with the flat-shelled Belon making up approximately 2% of . The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. And justifiably so. Zest of 2 limes. The French produce two types of oysters: oysters on plates and creuses. France has some amazing Christmas markets. The largest city in this region, Bordeaux, is located along the Atlantic coast. An oyster with a weight of 1 to 6 on a scale is classified as Hutre Creuse. It's a French word that you may have heard used with wine. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Oysters have been consumed in France since the Roman Empire. Blog all about Luxury Travel on the French Riviera and Cte d'Azur. Restaurants such as La Mare (in Grandcamp-Maisy) are reputed for their excellent, unpretentious and delicious cuisine, including fresh oyster platters. Generally raised in the plankton-rich Bay of Veys, these are oysters likely to please most palates for their soft, delicate flavours and pleasingly firm texture. Grown by Caminada Bay Oysters, this variety is giant, meaty, and fit for frying. In fact, the oyster beds just outside the Dansk Skaldyrcenter are part of the last large colony of wild European oysters left in the world. This allows them to grow fatter and more substantial than fines de claire. Heres a summary of some of the terms you are likely to encounter: France produces two types of oysters, plates and creuses. The oyster has been revered by kings and peasants in France for thousands of years, and it is still loved today as a salty and briny treat from the sea. The process is known as Lostriculture and the growers are known as Ostriculteurs. These are refined oysters, grown in marshes (claires) that allow for optimum production and a controlled growing environment. If you prefer to enjoy lunch or dinner at a nearby, high-end table, there are numerous options for an unforgettable gastronomic experience. The Hog Island Oyster Company of Tomales Bay, California, is famous for its hog Island Sweetwater oyster. Oysters are a popular food in France, and are often eaten raw with a squeeze of lemon juice. Huitres et Saumons de Passy. Theyve drunk malty, creamy stout with their oysters for generations, and it works surprisingly well with the salty hit of the oysters. They are large, juicy and have an intense flavour, earning them a place among the finest oysters in the world. They explain every aspect of oyster history and nurturing. In the 19th century, there were three oyster capitals in the world: Paris, London and New York. 3 rue de Montfaucon, 75006 Paris France +33 1 44 41 10 07 Website Menu. Like Kelly Galways, Loch Ryans are native oysters of the European variety, and they have been grown by the Wallace family since 1701, when King William II gave the family the rights to harvest the beds. Bartenders are getting creative with their martini and oyster collaborations; some now make martinis with an actual oyster thrown in there to take place of the vermouth, while others pop the oysters own salty, delicious juice in there to take the traditional olives dirty role. Marennes-Olron is famous for its La Pousse en Clair variety, which is elevated in low density ponds and shallow waters. The crisp fruitiness of the oyster is derived from the way they are cultivated, with a minimum fattening period of two months spent in the nutrient-rich water of salty marsh beds. There are numerous oysters to choose from in Alabama, but the Cancale oyster is by far the best. Going Out for Oysters. There are over 450 parks and gardens to visit in Paris. The oyster industry is rich in history, as can be seen by dipping your toe into the briny waters. Fresh Shipped; Oysters. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Known as the Royals Royce of oysters, these very fine oysters come at a premium. If youre going to Normandy, here are a few posts to help you plan your trip. However, these oysters are truly massive, which means you likely won't want to order that many. Limfjord oysters, dubbed "the best oysters in the world," are quite rare. Oysters, as a side dish, are popular as an appetizer made with bread and butter. From North to South there are seven distinct growing regions: Normandy, North-Brittany, South-Brittany, West-Central, Marennes-Olron, Arcachon, and the Mediterranean. Exceptional but relaxed tastings can be enjoyed at places including Au Pied dCheval on the Cancale Port, whose oyster platters (sourced from the restaurants own local production site) are remarkably fresh and delicious; the seaside views are breathtaking, too. Get yourself a coffee and a pastry because its a long read. Oysters cost between 8 and 20 euros per kilogram, but they are not as affordable as sushi. Oysters are a common ingredient in most restaurants, from humble bistros to fine dining establishments. If youre looking for a seafood dish that has a French flavor, try French oysters. And while the three regions above are perhaps the most popular ones for sampling superb shellfish, other areas, including the French Cote dAzur and Sicily, harbour some excellent oyster-tasting opportunities as well. Oysters, according to popular belief, have a distinct flavor that is influenced by the Mediterranean's salty taste and the River Ebro's sweet freshness. 261 Reviews. Matunuck Oyster Bar, where a dozen oysters will cost you $24. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Oysters are best found on the coasts of the Northeastern and Eastern United States. If youre having an event, pair your oyster with a cold Chablis or ros to make it extra special. In fact, one in four French oysters hail from this region and are prized by locals and visitors alike for their variety and frank, complex flavours. Its dense, slightly metallic and challenging flavour is so satisfying, And, if youve already started on the wine, the heady combination of oyster and alcohol will evoke dreamy images of misty Breton shores and the clanking of small boats as they dock to unload their catch. Enjoy a platter of freshly caught, raw oysters accompanied with lemon and crusty bread, or try them cooked in Brton cider or even as a filling in a traditional savoury buckwheat crepe (galette). Oysters are grown in seven different regions in France, including Normandy, Brittany, Arcachon, and Aquitaine. But which are the ones you should visit this year? . For eating raw, sizes 3 - 4 are best. Then, the only species available was the plate, or flat oyster (Ostrea edulis), more commonly known as the Belon. Oyster farming is a thriving part of the culture and economy of the tang de Thau (the Thau Lagoon between Ste and Bouzigues) in the Languedoc Roussillon and the picturesque town of Bouzigues produces the most sought-after oysters in Europe. These oysters are flat and round, with rippled green shells. They have a flavor reminiscent of brine and an intense copper finish, and they are full of umami. You can find two species of oysters here: the Rock oyster, which is also grown on the Pacific Coast of North America, and the Native oyster. But the French are also far from alone in their love and pride of their home grown oysters, with many other countries across the world vying for the title of the worlds best oyster. You can even board a 2CV vintage Citroen on embark on a rustic yet elegant tour around the landing beaches and picturesque natural sites such as the Cliffs at Etretat, stopping to taste oysters and other authentic Norman products (calvados, wines, cheeses, ciders) along the way. France has some of the best oyster experiences in the world. oysters from France are typically served raw with a squeeze of lemon, but they can also be cooked in a variety of ways. No BS Guide to Eating and Drinking Like the French. The coast of France also offers fantastic oyster experiences. These oysters cost a whopping $100 each. Pacific oysters are graded from 5 to 0 (the latter the largest, weighing over 150g) and native from small (petit) to very large (trs grande - over 100g). Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Also raised on the Cotentin Peninsula but further to the east, the huitre de Saint-Vaast la Hougue is another noble oyster with a fleshy texture, rich in iodine and featuring a subtle suggestion of hazelnut. 22 boulevard Veyrier Montagneres, 33120 Arcachon, France. They are generally whitish-gray in outer shell color, and their inside shell . The laws in place are aimed to prevent food waste at large. Generally, there is a small fork provided for this purpose, so that it is not attached to the shell. Learn about oyster farming practices in each of the 7 oyster farming sites in France (Normandy, North Brittany and South Brittany, Vende, Charente-Maritime, Arcachon, Mediterranean), along with the various methods employed. Fine de Claire, Spciale de Claire, Belon, Gillardeauyou name it!