Huître Henri IV — Grand Cru Oyster of Normandy グラン・クリュ・オイスター

Description

The Huître Henri IV is the most prestigious oyster cultivated by Domaine Navarre, raised in the powerful tidal waters of Gouville-sur-Mer on the Normandy coast of France.

Matured for 48 months, this exceptional oyster represents the pinnacle of Normandy oyster farming. Its generous flesh, refined iodine character, and long mineral finish make it a true grand cru oyster reserved for gastronomy and high-end seafood markets.

Developed through patient cultivation and meticulous selection, the Henri IV oyster embodies the union of Normandy maritime terroir, traditional oyster farming, and modern refinement techniques.

A Royal Gastronomic Profile

The Henri IV oyster is known for its remarkable structure and flavor intensity.

Characteristics include:

• Firm yet silky texture

• Generous, fleshy meat

• Deep iodine character with elegant mineral finish

• Long persistence on the palate

The balance between croquant texture and refined marine sweetness makes it one of the most appreciated oysters among chefs and seafood professionals.

Forged by the Normandy Seas

The oyster beds of Gouville-sur-Mer lie within one of the most dynamic marine ecosystems in Europe.

Strong north-west Atlantic winds, powerful tides, and the nutrient flows influenced by the Gulf Stream constantly oxygenate the water and provide abundant phytoplankton. These conditions create oysters with exceptional flavor concentration and shell quality.

This natural marine environment produces oysters that are:

• richly nourished

• structurally strong

• intensely flavorful

Four Years of Patient Cultivation

The Henri IV oyster is the result of an exceptionally long maturation cycle.

Cultivation process:

• 48 months of growth and refinement

• cultivation in rotating oyster bags to strengthen the shell and stimulate meat development

• rigorous manual selection to retain only the finest specimens

• slow growth that naturally reduces excess salinity and concentrates flavor

This patient process creates oysters with remarkable structure and gastronomic depth.

Exported Fresh to the World’s Finest Tables

Henri IV oysters are carefully calibrated and prepared for export through Navarre’s international logistics network.

Quality logistics include:

• traditional wooden oyster baskets (bourriches)

• strict temperature-controlled cold chain

• full traceability and sustainable farming practices

Through BeeBridge, these exceptional oysters can reach seafood importers, restaurants, and luxury hospitality markets in Japan, Taiwan, North America, and international fine-dining destinations.

A Royal Inspiration

The oyster takes its name from Henry IV of France, who ruled from 1589 to 1610 and was famously fond of oysters. During his reign, oyster consumption became increasingly popular throughout France.

In homage to this royal legacy, Navarre created the Henri IV oyster, the flagship of their oyster collection — a symbol of prosperity, refinement, and Normandy maritime heritage.

Product Details

Species: Crassostrea gigas
Origin: Gouville-sur-Mer, Normandy, France
Cultivation Time: ~48 months
Flavor Profile: powerful iodine character with elegant mineral finish
Texture: generous, crisp, and silky
Packaging: traditional wooden oyster baskets (bourriches)