There are four grades of Maple Syrup.

The four grades of maple syrup are Golden, Amber, Dark and Very Dark. With our cold climate, most of our crop is in the middle range, which is Amber and Dark.

The grade variations have nothing to do with quality or sweetness, one grade is not better than another. The difference in Grade comes entirely from the time of year and the weather.

In the beginning of the season, in early March, when there is lots of snow on the ground and the temperature barely gets above freezing the sap tends to run fast, and the result is  a “Golden” coloured Maple Syrup, which has a much lighter, more delicate taste.

As the season progresses and the temperatures start to warm up the syrup becomes a little darker, in a medium range of colour and flavour and is now called “Amber.” “Amber” has more Maple flavor and a darker color than “Golden”. With our climate, most of our Maple Syrup is in this range, which is many people’s favourite anyway!

Near the end of the season as the snow disappears and the temperatures really begin to warm up, the Maple Syrup becomes a little darker yet and has a very robust Maple flavor and is dark in color. This is called “Dark.” We have a lot of customers who prefer this rich Maple flavour, and it is certainly delicious!

Sometimes, at the very end of the season in early April, the Maple Syrup turns even darker yet and is called “Very Dark”. This Very Dark Maple Syrup has a very strong Maple flavor and is sometimes used for baking.

Which is the best?

The big question in discussing Grades of Maple Syrup is “Which Grade should I buy?”

It turns out that it is a very personal question based entirely on personal taste. Do you prefer milder flavors? Do you eat mild chocolate and mild cheddar cheese? Perhaps “Golden” will be your grade of choice.

Or do you tend to like big bold tastes? Are you the type of person who drinks dark roast coffee and eats blue cheese? Than maybe “Dark” is the grade for you!

Not sure where you fit in? Consider “Amber” Maple Syrup! It is somewhere in the middle and is a great choice for everyone!

Another thing to take into consideration when selecting a Grade of  Maple Syrup is what you will be using it for. If you intend to use it for its sweetness only and not its maple flavor (such as using it for canning or baking) than consider a lighter grade. If you are using it for something where you want the Maple Flavor to come through pick a darker grade.

Most of our customers prefer Amber or Dark, and that is what we personally prefer, as well. We use Golden for canning peaches and cherries; we use Amber for pancakes, waffles, in tea or coffee, on ice cream, and in puddings and desserts; We use Dark for baking muffins, bread, baked beans.

Each grade is delicious!  Enjoy each one! Personally, I love each grade! Maple Syrup is just so delicious and I enjoy the variety of flavours that the wonderful Maple trees give us.

Do you have questions on how to use Maple Syrup in baking? Get our free recipes from the web site.