Cortes Island Oyster

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Cortes Island Oyster Flavor Profile Characteristics

Cortes Island Oysters are a Pacific Northwest oyster from the pristine waters of British Columbia's north-central coast.  They are an intertidal beach cultured oyster.  Beach cultured oysters are raised on tidal beaches with sandy or rocky bottoms.  They are accustomed  to fighting the tides, clamping tightly shut during low tides to preserve their “liquor” and to protect themselves against predators.  Because of this “tough” life, beach raised oysters are hearty.  Their meats are full and firm and their oyster flavor profile tends to be full-flavored.  Beach grown oysters have hard, sturdy shells which shuckers like to work with.  And their ability to close tightly, coupled with their hard shells, gives them a longer shelf life.

Cortes Island Oyster
Location	Deep Bay, Northern Strait of Georgia, British Columbia
Species	Pacific Oyster (Crassostrea gigas)
Oyster Availability	September - July
Size	up to 3"
Oyster Cultivation	Intertidal beach cultivated
Oyster Flavor Profile	Cortes Island Oysters are deep-cupped with delicate meats, mild brininess and a sweet flavor.
Map	See Cortes Island Oyster Map

See proper shellfish storage methods for the best way to maintain the shelf life and flavor of your oysters. Also, check-out our list of Where to buy Raw Oysters.