Maple Sugaring in the Area
According to legend, Indians first produced maple syrup when a brave stuck his tomahawk in a maple tree. The Story relates that the sap flowed into a container left at the base of the tree. The Indian squaw, believing the clear liquid to be water, placed the container over the fire. The boiling resulted in a sweet flavor and so maple syrup was produced.
Although there are many such stories told, we do know that early settlers produced and used maple syrup as a basic sweetener. In early times, gashes were cut in the maple trees to allow the sap to flow, but it was soon discovered that drilling a hole in the tree resulted in good sap flow and less damage to the tree. Sap was probably collected in wooden or clay trough like containers in very early processes, but wooden buckets or "keelers" soon replaced these. A wooden spout, or "spile", was placed in the hole in the tree to allow the sap to drip into the bucket.
Although equipment has been modernized, the basic process of producing maple syrup remains the same. Sugar makers may use metal spouts and buckets to collect the sap or it may be gathered through a network of plastic tubing connecting the trees to a central collection tank.
The sap is available only during the dormant stage of the tree and will flow only when the temperature is above freezing. In early spring, nature causes the sap to flow within the tree as warmer temperatures remove the frost from the tree itself and the ground surrounding the tree.
Couture's Maple Shop
560 VT RTE. 100, Westfield VT 05874
Phone: 802-744-2733 or 800-845-2733
E-mail Couture's Maple Shop or Visit the Couture's Maple Shop Website
Vermont Dairy Farm of the Year 2004-2005
If you ever have the opportunity to travel to Vermont, your visit to our maple shop would delight us. Our farm is located on Route 100 near the Canadian Border, minutes from Jay Peak Ski Area.
Mapled Nut Company
121 N. Main Street, PO Box 116,Montgomery,VT 05470
802-326-4661 or 800-726-4661
E-mail the Mapled Nut Company or Visit the Mapled Nut Company Website
Established in 1986. The Mapled Nut Co. produces a gourmet line of Maple Sugar Coated Cashews, Almonds, Pecans & Walnuts. A delicious blend of Mother Nature's own flavors, created using 100% Pure Vermont Maple Syrup. Elegantly packaged in 4 and 12 oz. sizes. A must for anyone seeking something special. Available through mail-order and retail stores. Wholesale and corporate gift inquiries welcome.
Morey Farm
71 Morey Road, Troy VT 05868
Phone: 802-744-6350
The sixth generation of the Morey Clan continue to produce quality maple syrup on the family farm. Sugar house open to the public during the spring. Maple syrup available year-round.