Norman’s Shuck Oyster Vodka

Google the term “vodka and oyster drink recipes” and it will likely come as no surprise that the search engine instantly serves up over 3 million results. Vodka and oysters have long been considered a natural pairing, whether served a la carte, in a shot glass, or combined in a cocktail.

But what if you took it one step further? What if you created an oyster vodka?

That’s the question that Rick Norman, owner and distiller of Garden State Distillery, began to consider when a close friend suggested “it would be a great idea” to create an oyster-flavored vodka. Norman, a former bartender with a degree in chemistry and a lifelong oyster fan, reached out to the Barnegat Oyster Collective to discuss the concept. The organization of oyster farmers was soon on board, providing the oysters and seaweed needed to create the sea-inspired spirit.

The first limited-edition batch of Norman’s Shuck debuted last July. Thanks to loosened restrictions during the pandemic, Norman was able to sample and sell his new 80 proof vodka at farmers’ markets in Brick, Seaside Park, and Marlboro, an opportunity he concedes was “very helpful” to his product’s development.

“I wanted to see if it would work, to see if people will like it,” says Norman, who describes his new vodka as “a little salty, a little briny, with some pepper notes. Very clean and crisp.”

Based on the positive response, Norman is ramping up production and expects Shuck Vodka to be available at a number of bars and restaurants, primarily on LBI and in Point Pleasant, by the summer. (“Ask for it!” he says.) The vodka will also be available again at the farmers’ markets as well as the Garden State Distillery tasting room.

Since opening in February 2020, Garden State Distillery has been making a name for itself with its line of handcrafted spirits, many made entirely with New Jersey ingredients. Rick Norman, who grew up in Bricktown, views this newest product as “100% unique to New Jersey” with its key ingredients—oysters, seaweed, and sea salt—all hailing from nearby waters. To return the favor, he’s donating a portion of the proceeds from every bottle of Norman’s Shuck sold to SaveBarnegatBay.org.

Garden State Distillery
13 Washington Street, Toms River
732.359.3210
gardenstatedistillery.com