Syrup
Very Dark Strong
A tier
Very Dark Strong is the last run and the processing grade: almost mahogany, mineral, and close to a light molasses in punch. Some is packed for table use; much goes to flavouring and commercial kitchens. It can taste slightly buddy or smoky if the sap was late and warm. A teaspoon seasons a barbecue sauce. It will stain a panna cotta. Do not buy it expecting Golden Delicate. True maple at this grade still smells of the sugarhouse, not of fenugreek fake-maple.
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Characteristics
Preparations
Traits
History
Very Dark Strong was defined for the darkest retail and processing maple under the new grades.
Commercial kitchens used Very Dark Strong to flavour at a lower dose than amber.
A few farm stands sold Very Dark as a cult pour for people who like robust maple.