What many people don't realize is that sugarmakers produce four distinct ambers or colors of syrup during a single sugaring season. Of those 4 ambers of maple syrup, there are 2 grade values, Grade A and Grade B maple syrup. The descriptions below shows each maple syrup grade in further detail.  Our Maple Connoisseur Grade Sampler pictured below makes a great gift for the maple lover, with 8.45 ounces of each of the four ambers of syrup.

Grade A Light Amber  Called the Gourmet's choice by some, this is our first run of the season syrup, with a delicately sweet maple flavor. (Referred to as Fancy in Vermont and Grade AA in Canada.)

Grade A Medium Amber Our most popular grade. A wonderful, golden syrup with a pronounced maple flavor. Try it on pancakes, cereal, or over ice cream! (Referred to as Grade A in Canada)

Grade A Dark Amber  A dark, full-bodied syrup with a robust maple flavor. A true maple lover's dream. (Referred to as Grade B in Canada)

Grade B  Our darkest syrup, with clear overtones of caramel. This is the last syrup we make before the buds come out on the trees. Perfect for cooking.   Need some help on how to use maple syrup in cooking?  See our Cooking with Maple page for some great ideas!  (Referred to as Grade C in Canada).

GRADE C  See Grade B above. For those of you who are puzzled because you can no longer find Grade C, please note that the USDA grade classifications have changed and what once was referred to as Grade C is today's Grade B. The following chart illustrates the classification changes: 
 

Note: GRADE C - Commercial/Industrial  Not recommended for general consumption. An industrial grade that is generally unavailable to consumers. Often used to flavor tobacco or blended with artificial syrups. (Colin calls it "Vermont Asphalt.")

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