VERMONT
MAPLE SYRUP- MAPLE SYRUP GRADES
In
the State of Vermont maple syrup is graded by color
and flavor. There are four different grades of syrup
for retail sales.
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FANCY-is
the lightest syrup in color. Fancy syrup has
a delicately sweet, maple flavor. |
 |
MEDIUM
AMBER-is
darker than fancy with a more pronounced
flavor that is not strong or unpleasant.
|
 |
DARK
AMBER-is
darker and more maple flavored than medium
amber.
It serves as both a good pancake and
cooking syrup. |
 |
GRADE
B-has
the most robust maple flavor and makes the
best syrup for your favorite maple dishes.
However, for some, this grade is
still a suitable table syrup.
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The
first syrups made are the lightest, when the frosts
are hard and temperatures rise just above freezing. As
the season progresses and the temperatures rise, the
syrup becomes darker. Mother Nature controls the
quality of the sap. Once it becomes too warm or the
trees start to pop buds, the syrup takes on a bitter
taste and the season is over.
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