Island Creek Scallops in Vieira Sauce

About this gift

Producer: Costas y Miñan

Where it's from: Galicia, Spain

Story: The ocean has shaped the culture, cuisine, and economy of Galicia for centuries. Nicknamed "the land of a thousand rivers", Galicia is studded with bays and inlets which are fed "rias" [aka estuaries). It's this magical brew of the fresh and salt water that makes Galicia one of the most prolific shellfishing regions in the world.

Why it’s unique: These scallops were grown on floating rafts using rope culture before being harvested by mariscadoras. Shellfishing in Galicia is highly restricted, so licenses are often passed down through generations, often staying within families. We've chosen to source the highest quality grade of shellfish for this line. Harvesting and canning production are entirely dictated by the seasons and the health of the shellfish stocks, meaning that no two years will look exactly alike. For example, if it's an off-year for cockles, Costas y Miñan will cap production and produce fewer tins. They refuse to supplement from fisheries in farther flung waters to fill their coffers, ultimately leaving money on the table.