The picturesque Winnetu Oceanside Resort on Martha’s Vineyard has long been a sanctuary for those seeking natural beauty and gourmet delights. Known for its fresh seafood offerings, it recently expanded its culinary horizons with an innovative whiskey-themed weekend that creatively fused coastal cuisine with the distinctive notes of bourbon. The inaugural “Ocean & Oysters” event showcased Jefferson’s Bourbon, founded by the charismatic Trey Zoeller, tapping into both maritime traditions and the allure of premium spirits.
Martha’s Vineyard boasts an idyllic setting that naturally encourages culinary exploration, particularly of its rich maritime bounty. However, the incorporation of whiskey, particularly Jefferson’s Ocean bourbon, introduces a refreshing twist. Unlike most bourbons that remain nestled in land-bound rickhouses, Jefferson’s Ocean takes a more adventurous path. Aging at sea enhances its flavor profile, giving it a unique brininess that complements local oysters perfectly.
Trey Zoeller explained that Jefferson’s Ocean undergoes an extraordinary maturation process. After traditional aging in Kentucky, the bourbon is loaded onto shipping containers where it continues to age on the high seas. The dynamic movement stimulates the bourbon to interact more vigorously with the oak barrels, yielding a spirit that embodies the essence of the ocean. This synergy between land and sea not only enriches the flavor but also makes it an ideally suited partner for fresh, briny oysters served off the Vineyard’s stunning shores.
The weekend festivities commenced with a shucking session led by Cottage City Oysters, a renowned local purveyor. Guests learned techniques to master the art of oyster shucking while enjoying light-hearted storytelling from Zoeller, who shared tales of his own oceanic adventures. The joyful ambiance reflected a strong community spirit, inviting both locals and visitors alike to engage in culinary traditions and appreciate the rich flavors uniquely available on the island.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, a specially curated Jefferson’s Bourbon bar along the waterfront became a focal point for a classic clambake. This gathering allowed attendees to experience the joys of pairing oysters with bourbon, elevating the traditional seafood feast into an intriguing exploration of taste.
The highlight of the weekend was undoubtedly the ceremonial barrel-filling in the resort’s courtyard. This significant moment symbolized not just the creation of another bourbon batch but also marked the beginning of a tradition that promises to be a culinary staple on Martha’s Vineyard. Zoeller expressed that the next batch might set sail to further develop its flavor on the ocean, assuring that the resulting bourbon will return to be tasted during the next edition of Ocean & Oysters, likely becoming a cult favorite amongst enthusiasts.
During the afternoon’s tasting sessions, Zoeller provided deeper insights into the harmonious relationship that exists between bourbon and oysters. He articulated how the sea-infused notes of the bourbon resonate with the mineral richness of Vineyard oysters, creating an unparalleled gastronomic experience that celebrates the best of both realms.
What made this event even more special was the serene setting of Martha’s Vineyard during autumn. The throngs of summer tourists were notably absent, allowing attendees to enjoy both the stunning fall foliage and the mild weather in relative peace. The getaway transformed into a culinary haven, proving that fall is perhaps the season when the island truly shines. With fewer crowds, and now the addition of whiskey-infused festivities, Martha’s Vineyard is emerging as a prime destination for those looking to savor both natural beauty and flavorful cuisine.
As Winnetu Oceanside Resort continues to expand its unique culinary programming, it paves the way for similar celebrations across its network. The upcoming Taste of Lovango event in the US Virgin Islands exemplifies this commitment to melding local culture with gourmet experiences. The prospect of introducing additional barrels of Jefferson’s Ocean to future festivals promises to enrich these occasions further.
Zoeller’s aspirational vision for these offerings is not just about commerce but about crafting communal experiences that weave together stories, flavors, and cherished moments. The Ocean & Oysters weekend firmly establishes itself as a new autumn tradition, celebrating the intricate dance between whiskey and the ocean, bringing together friends, family, and flavors in a remarkable seaside setting. As the sun sets on future weekends like these, guests will relish the memories made, forever savoring the synergy of land and sea encapsulated in every sip and every bite.