The epitome of versatility and deliciousness, Leeuwin Coast Akoya effortlessly harmonises with endless wine pairings, making them the perfect accompaniment to the Fine Vines Festival program. Perfect when cured, cooked or raw, they’re an ideal choice for inventive chefs seeking to provide guests with a unique culinary offering alongside the Margaret River region’s fine wines.

Traditionally grown and harvested for pearls, Leeuwin Coast’s innovative aquaculture techniques have transformed the Akoya into a culinary delicacy, unlocking a world of delicious possibilities. With a flavour reminiscent of clams, the brininess and minerality of oysters, and a subtle sweetness reminiscent of scallops, Akoya promise to elevate your wine-tasting experience across the festival.  Below are some of the reasons we love the Leeuwin Coast Akoya and encourage you to sample across the Fine Vines Festival.

Uniquely West Australian

Leeuwin Coast grows delicious and sustainable shellfish on their aquaculture farms in the deep south of the State, off the coast of Albany. Nestled within King George Sound, the pristine waters of the Southern Ocean surrounding Mistaken Island provide an idyllic and clean environment, perfectly conducive to the cultivation of the Akoya for culinary uses, making it a uniquely West Australian offering.

Sustainable, naturally

Leeuwin Coast’s cultivated their produce through processes that inherently respects their environment. Akoya thrive and grow without the need for added feed or chemical treatments, ensuring minimal impact on the environment. As they grow, the Akoya contribute to carbon sequestration by absorbing carbon into their shells.

Leeuwin Coast’s aquaculture products became the first in Australia to earn Carbon Neutral certification from Climate Active in 2020 and proudly bear Friend of the Sea certification. The team also prioritise sustainable packaging through their association with the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO), adhering to their guidelines for environmentally responsible packaging.

Ocean fresh to your plate

In the meticulous process of Akoya harvesting, specialised equipment is used to detach the Akoya from its cultivation lines after which point they’re immediately submerged in chilledwater. The harvested Akoya is then rapidly snap-frozen, a technique designed to maintain quality, ensuring they are delivered to restaurants around the world in a state of ocean freshness, preserving their unique flavour profile.

Where to Find Akoya at Fine Vines

You can try the unique Leeuwin Coast Akoya across Fine Vines Festival at events including Wine on the Water, Sparkling Disco and more.