This is HANDS DOWN our MOST frequently asked question. Two to three times a day, customers will ask: Which maple syrup should I get? And we love the chance to assist folks to find the syrup that's the best choice for them.
And I tell you, I don’t blame folks for asking! We have over two dozen options to choose from! It can be a bit daunting.
I ALWAYS ask, “What are you going to use it for?”
And the number one answer… Survey SAYS - pancakes! I love pretty much any excuse to use maple syrup to top my food, but, pancakes is the classic and still most popular way to enjoy.
Real maple syrup is divided into four colors. The lighter the color, the less intense the maple flavor. The darker the color, the more intense the maple flavor.
So, which one is best for pancakes? That depends.
If you’re specifically looking for what used to be called Fancy (grades were updated several years ago for clarity and consistency), you’ll want Golden Delicate. Otherwise, it’s a little on the light side for us.
We recommend something a little darker. Let’s face it, maple is (expletive) delicious! Why not get more maple FLAVOR? Amber Rich is generally considered the standard table syrup and what many used to know as Grade A. You won’t be disappointed.
But, we ALWAYS recommend trying Dark Robust (formerly known as Grade B). You’re in Vermont, you might as well get the good dark, local, small-batch maple syrup that Vermonters just adore.
Our not-so-hidden shop secret is that we love our maple syrup really dark. So, we might encourage you to give Very Dark Robust a try. Usually reserved for cooking, it’s often called “Commercial Grade”, this former Grade C syrup has the most intense maple flavor. I absolutely love putting it in my coffee with cream. We dare you to try!
Bottom line, Dark Robust is our top shop recommendation for pancakes. For those more inclined to stick with what you know, grab the Amber Rich.
The good news is, pure Vermont maple syrup is delicious. So, don’t put too much pressure on yourself. You really can’t go wrong!
Shop our maple syrup selection!
For more details on maple syrup grading, check out the chart below!
