Warmer Days and Cool nights can only mean one thing. Spring is finally here in Vermont and that means the sap’s flowing! As you travel the byways of the Shires you’ll see the telltale signs of billowing steam, plastic tubing snaking through the landscape and the old fashion metal washtub barrels overflowing with sap. Vermont’s Liquid Gold is in full production and Manchester and the Mountains is home to several sugarhouses. The office here at the Casablanca has stocked up on Maple candies, Maple lollipops and of course Grade A Maple Syrup in fun containers!
Fun Fact: Did you know that Maple Syrup is 100% natural and organic? Vermont syrup is graded by color and flavor – tasting notes to follow. There really are several varieties of Grade A so here’s a description when you’re ready to buy and please support local by looking for the Vermont Seal of Approval!
Golden Color and Delicate Taste: This mild and delicate syrup has a more pronounced golden color. (It is comparable to the Grade A Light Amber grade in the older grading system.)
Amber Color and Rich Taste: This syrup ranges in amber color (light, medium, or dark) and has a rich and full-bodied taste. (It is comparable to the Grade A Medium Amber or Grade A Dark Amber grades in the older grading system.)
Dark Color and Robust Taste: Stronger than the lighter color classes, this dark colored syrup has a robust and substantial taste. (It is comparable to Grade A Dark Amber, Grade A Extra Dark, or Grade B in the older grading system.)
Very Dark and Strong Taste: Typically used for cooking purposes or some table use, this is the strongest maple syrup flavor.
While you’re in VT, be sure to take a trip to a sugarhouse, grab a pint or two and sample our Sugar On Snow. Yes, Vermonters really do eat dill pickles and apple cider donuts with their syrup. Trust us, it’s a delicious, and memorable, experience!
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