MERROIR
From the depths of the ocean, oysters can be found around the globe on rocks and piers in the saltiest of waters. Just as the land, terroir, grapes are grown in can affect the taste of wine; the merroir- the environmental factors of the ocean- affect the taste and shape of these shellfish. The salinity of the water around them, the temperature of the water, all plays into the final flavor of the oyster.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF OYSTERS
Oysters are low in calorie and high in micronutrients. On average, 6 oysters contain only 50 calories and 6 grams of protein! Oysters carry a remarkable amount of Vitamin B-12, excellent for brain health and cognitive function; as well provide a rich source of Vitamin D, copper, zinc and manganese contributing to bone health.
WHICH OYSTERS ARE BEST?
Draeger’s Seafood Mangers are partial to the Atlantic Blue Point Oysters from Bevans Oyster Company, located in historic Westmorland Count Virginia. Nestled between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers on a Chesapeake Bay Tributary, Bevans was founded more than fifty years ago. Draeger’s chooses Bevans Oysters because the family-owned company has an illustrious reputation for standards in quality.
HOW TO EAT A RAW OYSTER
Step 1: Try it naked. That’s right, no lemon zest, cocktail sauce, or condiment of any type to start with, to allow the oyster’s true flavor to shine through.
Step 2: Use your cocktail fork to loosen the oyster from its shell, but not to eat the oyster.
Step 3: Keeping the oyster level, gently slip the oyster and liquid into your mouth and chew slightly to release flavor.
Step 4: Once you’ve tasted the oyster, you can now add condiments, but delicately as to not overwhelm the original flavor.
Step 5: After the oyster has been consumed, flip the shell over so it is apparent that oyster has been eaten.