Stump Sound Single
Crassostrea virginica
Highly prized North Carolina oyster from Stump Sound, one of the saltiest estuaries on the East Coast. Intensely briny and ocean-forward with buttery richness and mineral notes from the unique lagoon system where fresh and salt waters meet.
Flavor Profile
Finish
Strong, salty, ocean-forward
Expert Notes
Stump Sound Singles are legendary North Carolina oysters grown in one of the saltiest estuaries on the Eastern Seaboard. These oysters taste intensely of the ocean, delivering a powerful briny punch with buttery richness and delicate mineral notes. The unique lagoon system where Stump Sound meets both the freshwater marshes of the New River and saltwater from the Atlantic Ocean creates the perfect balance that makes these oysters highly prized among enthusiasts for their distinctive, ocean-forward flavor profile. Origin & Characteristics
- Species
- Crassostrea virginica
- Native to
- USA
- Grown in
- Stump Sound, Sneads Ferry, North Carolina
- Size
- Medium (2.5-4 inches)
- Shell Color
- Gray-white
- Meat Color
- Cream
What Experts Say
Across 4 sources, tasters describe this oyster as:
Unique notes: plump, optimum brininess
"A native of North Carolina, I feel we have some of the best oysters to offer. My favorite is the Stump Sound Single, from Sneeds Ferry, NC. The local clusters are damn good too!"
"Twice or thrice at least, but a honking big Stump Sound single is a chunk of meat I'm in no rush to rush. I might chew my cud for a bit"
meaty
"A nice, plump, high quality oyster with saltiness... It must be described in terms of its native habitat—the same environment that gives it its great taste—crisp, clean with an optimum brininess"
plumpsaltycrispcleanbriny
"Clusters of Stump Sound oysters are served steamed - a Southern tradition that actually condenses the oyster flavor."
About the Farm
Cultivated in Stump Sound near Sneeds Ferry, North Carolina, this oyster comes from one of the saltiest estuaries on the East Coast.
History & Background
Stump Sound is part of the Pamlico Sound region, which is the site of some of the most successful oyster restoration projects in the world, with densities of wild oysters found nowhere else on the east coast.
These oysters represent a Southern tradition where clusters are often served steamed to condense their flavor. They are highly regarded locally and appeal to both residents and tourists visiting the North Carolina coast.
Did You Know?
- Pamlico Sound area is considered an underappreciated region that may be the big up-and-comer in the oyster world
- Stump Sound Singles are known for being 'honking big' with a meaty texture that encourages slow savoring
Sources & References
This information was compiled from 4 sources.
- Stump Sound Singles, Anyone? — The Oyster Guide
- How Many Chews Are in an Oyster? — Garden & Gun
- Inland Bays Shellfish Branding Discovery — University of Delaware
- Stump Sound - Oyster Tastes — Oyster Tastes
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Learn More
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