There are two types of oyster which we cultivate; the Colchester Native oyster and the rock oyster.
Colchester Native oyster
The native oyster (ostrea edulis) is indigenous to North West Europe. It is a flat oyster and round in shape. We dredge these oysters from the River Blackwater and fatten them on our own oyster beds. The beds are tidal, thus drawing rich nutrients from the marshes, helping the oyster to fatten and strengthen.
It is a delicate oyster and is averse to harsh weather conditions. This mollusc needs care and attention. The end product is a firm textured meat, bursting with saltiness and a fresh metallic finish on the back of the throat, owing to the high zinc content.
Wild rock oyster
The rock oyster (crassostrea gigas) looks as the name suggests, like a rock. It is a jagged oyster and has a more erratic shape. Rock oysters now grow wild in the River Blackwater, thus ensuring both types of oyster we sell are truly local to Mersea.
The rock oyster is much more resilient to extreme weather conditions and spawns more frequently too. The end result is an oyster with a saltier finish and a meat which is extremely plump but not as firm.
The rock is available all year round whereas the native oyster can be bought from September through to the end of April.
richard haward’s oysters
Seventh generation oysterman
