Merroir – Definition is “The complete set of local conditions in which seafood is raised.” Very similar to the term terroir used to describe wine. Just like flavor of wine is derived from not only the grapes used but it’s the air and the soil where the grapes are grown that give them a unique flavor profile. The same variety of grape grown in a different location will have a slightly different flavor profile. The same is true with seafood and especially Oysters. 

As a filter feeder oysters feed on the local plankton and algae in the water and take on the taste and flavor of the where they are grown. Just like wine grapes the exact same species of oyster grown in a different location will have a completely different taste giving it, a unique Merroir. 

The Great Marsh where our oysters are grown is the largest contiguous stretch of salt marsh north of Long Island. The estuary is made up of series of rivers (The Parker, Mill, Rowley, Eagle Hill, Ipswich, and Essex) Plum Island Sound and Essex Bay. It contains some of the richest shellfish resources on the east coast. The pristine water quality and size of the estuary create a unique Merroir that can’t be replicated elsewhere. Our Farm site is located in the middle of the estuary at the mouth of the Rowley River with a strong tidal flow that brings in the salt water to mix with the fresh water creating the perfect brine for a delicious oyster.