We make maple syrup in 3 gallon batches from 110 gallons of sap. We collect from many trees in our neighborhood and cook in a large flat stainless steel pan over a wood fire. Then, we finish it in a stainless pot with a spigot on it to draw off the finished syrup. The syrup is filtered through an Orlon felt bag, which removes any soot and sediment (maple sand) that forms during the cooking process.
This simple system allows us to process small batches and obtain very fine quality syrup. We typically produce 1 to 2 gallons of USDA Grade A Light Amber (Vermont Fancy) syrup, up to 6 gallons of USDA Grade A Medium Amber, and up to 10 gallons of USDA Grade A Dark Amber. Of course, the weather may not cooperate. We have had annual totals as low as 5 gallons and as high as 15.
Our syrup is Kosher, made with the approval of Rabbi Akivah Herzfeld of Congregation Shaarey T'Philoh in Portland, Maine.
It is available for purchase on Maine Maple Sunday, and also if we happen to have any on hand when you come visit us.
View a gallery of photos from Maine Maple Sunday, 2009.
Yes, Mr. Tubahead. James and his wife, Rori, were deeply involved in the Yale Precision Marching Band. He was a Sousaphone player and the drum major for the 1988-1989 season. Rori was the Props Goddess from 1990-1992. They were maried on the 50 yard line in the Yale Bowl at halftime during the Yale Fordham game on October 10, 1992. Read about it in the New York Times.
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Mr. Tubahead is an icon of the Yale Precision Marching Band. Although in proper YPMB attire, he is slightly disheveled from the previous evening's debauchery. He holds his formation sheet for this week's game, crumpled since it is generally irrelevant. His shoulder epaulets are somewhat enigmatic, as no member of the Yale Band wears epaulets. Perhaps his elevated position entitles him to don the mark of a high-ranking officer, but he is perennially absent from officer's meetings, Overseas Tours, Presidential Inaugural Parades, and other events where Band officials are likely to be. He provides his endorsement as a courtesy to James, who, having been a Drum Major and Sousaphone Section Leader, highly values his opinion. |
We run a small operation, without pony rides, pancake breakfasts or a huge variety of cheeses and candies. We only make maple syrup, and those who manage to find us appreciate our simple approach to Maine Maple Sunday.
