About the New Grading System

 

A standard international grading system has been adopted by the Intenational Maple Syrup Institute to help unite maple producers, packers, distributors, and consumers.  The new system will better meet the regulatory and marketing needs of both the commercial maple syrup industry and consumers for the 21st century.

 

Grade A Golden Maple Syrup

Pure maple syrup in this class has a light to more pronounced golden color and a delicate or mild taste.  Choose this class if you prefer a lighter-colored maple syrup with a delicate or mild taste.

 

Grade A Amber Maple Syrup

Pure maple syrup in this class has a light amber color and a rich or full-bodied taste.  Choose this class if you prefer a full-bodied tasting syrup of medium intensity.

 

Grade A Dark Maple Syrup

Pure maple syrup in this class has a dark color and a more robust or stronger taste than syrup in lighter color classes.  Choose this class if you prefer a dark-colored syrup with substantial or robust taste.

 

Grade A Very Dark Maple Syrup

Pure maple syrup in this class has a very strong taste.  It is generally recommended for cooking purposes but you may prefer it for table use.