Understanding Maple Syrup Grades and Taste

All Maine maple syrup commercially sold is U.S. Grade A quality, as defined by Maine law. The syrup is further classified by flavor and color characteristics as shown in the classifications below. The words "Maine Maple Syrup" may be used only for pure maple syrup that is produced in Maine.

Grade A: Golden Color with Delicate Flavor
Grade A: Golden Color with Delicate Flavor Pure Maple Syrup is generally early season syrup.   As tradition goes, this is the first few runs of syrup at the beginning of the season, however with modern technology, we can produce this grade of syrup throughout most of the season. It has a fine pronounced sweetness with a delicate maple flavor. This syrup is desirable for pancakes, waffles, French toast, and as an ice cream topping if a delicate maple flavor is desired.  

Grade A:  Amber Color with Rich Flavor
Grade A:  Amber Color with Rich Flavor Pure Maple Syrup has a slightly stronger flavor with a noticeable darker color. This syrup is by far the most popular choice for all purpose syrup. This grade has a rich full bodied taste that makes it the perfect compliment to most foods.  It is the gift of choice by many.  

Grade A:   Dark Color with Robust Flavor
Grade A:   Dark Color with Robust Flavor Pure Maple Syrup is much darker in color and has a stronger more robust maple flavor. It is less desirable as a table syrup but often preferred in baking and cooking because of its strong flavor.  This syrup is great to pour over baked apples or squash or use as a glaze on meats and vegetables. 

Grade A:  Very Dark Color with Strong Flavor
Grade A:  Very Dark Color with Strong Flavor Pure Maple Syrup is generally very late season syrup.  It is great is foods and recipes where a strong maple presence is desire.  Wonderful in cookies, breads, and baked beans.   Due to the nature of this syrup, it is often only packaged in larger plastic containers.

Source: Maine Maple Producers Association