Exploring traditions, recipes, and the artisanal craft behind Canada's liquid gold
Founded in 2012, Maple Taste is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of maple syrup production in Canada. Our journey began in the picturesque forests of Quebec, where generations of maple syrup producers have perfected the art of harvesting this natural treasure.
We work directly with over 45 family-owned maple farms across Quebec, Ontario, and New Brunswick to document traditional practices, develop innovative recipes, and educate the public about sustainable maple harvesting techniques. Our team includes culinary experts, agricultural specialists, and cultural historians who are passionate about every aspect of maple syrup production.
At Maple Taste, we believe that authentic maple syrup is more than just a sweetener—it's a cultural touchstone that connects Canadians to their land and heritage. Through our website, publications, and community events, we strive to share this precious cultural resource with maple enthusiasts around the world.
At Maple Taste, we're committed to advancing knowledge about maple syrup through rigorous scientific research and cultural studies. Our research focuses on sustainable harvesting practices, nutritional benefits, and preserving traditional production methods.
Our research team has developed innovative approaches to maple tapping that minimize tree stress and maximize long-term forest health. Through partnerships with the University of Quebec and McGill University, we've conducted multi-year studies on maple tree recovery rates and optimal harvesting frequencies.
Recent findings have shown that properly managed maple forests can maintain productivity for over 100 years, creating a truly sustainable agricultural model. Our guidelines for sustainable harvesting have been adopted by over 200 maple producers across Canada, resulting in healthier forests and more consistent syrup yields.
Our collaborative research with nutrition scientists has identified over 67 unique polyphenols and antioxidant compounds in pure maple syrup. These bioactive compounds have demonstrated potential anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting properties in preliminary studies.
We've also documented how the mineral content of maple syrup—including manganese, zinc, and calcium—varies based on forest soil composition and seasonal timing. This research helps producers optimize harvesting schedules to maximize both flavor and nutritional value of their syrup.
Our cultural historians work closely with Indigenous communities to document and preserve traditional maple harvesting knowledge that dates back centuries. We've recorded oral histories from elders in Mi'kmaq, Abenaki, and Haudenosaunee communities about their ancestral maple harvesting practices.
This research has revealed sophisticated ecological knowledge systems that balanced maple harvesting with forest ecosystem health long before modern scientific approaches. We're working to integrate these traditional methods with contemporary practices to create truly sustainable and culturally respectful maple production techniques.
Maple Taste and our partner producers have received numerous accolades for excellence in quality, sustainability, and innovation in the maple syrup industry.
Presented by the Canadian Culinary Federation, 2023
Recognized for our contribution to promoting authentic Canadian maple cuisine and developing innovative maple-based recipes that showcase the versatility of this traditional ingredient.
Canadian Forest Stewardship Council, 2022
Awarded for our development and implementation of sustainable maple harvesting guidelines that protect forest ecosystems while supporting traditional agricultural practices.
Quebec Cultural Heritage Foundation, 2021
Honored for our work documenting and preserving traditional maple syrup production methods and collaborating with Indigenous communities to protect ancestral knowledge.
Canadian Agricultural Technology Association, 2020
Recognized for developing new methods to analyze maple syrup quality and optimize production efficiency while maintaining traditional flavor profiles and cultural authenticity.
Canada leads the world in maple syrup production, with Quebec producing over 70% of the global supply. Here are some key facts about this important cultural and economic resource.
Million liters of maple syrup produced annually in Canada
Maple syrup producers across Canada
Million dollars in annual export value
Liters of sap needed to produce 1 liter of maple syrup
The 37th Annual Quebec Maple Festival welcomed over 120,000 visitors this year, setting a new attendance record. The three-day celebration featured traditional syrup-making demonstrations, cooking competitions, and cultural performances highlighting Canada's maple heritage.
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Researchers at McGill University have identified a unique polyphenol in maple syrup that shows promising anti-inflammatory properties. The compound, named Quebecol C, is being studied for potential applications in natural health products and functional foods.
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A new study by the Canadian Maple Research Institute indicates that maple sap harvesting seasons have shifted by an average of 12 days earlier compared to historical records from the 1970s. Producers are adapting harvesting techniques to accommodate these changing patterns.
Read moreDiscover more about maple syrup production, history, and culinary applications through these valuable resources from across the maple community.
The official organization representing over 7,400 maple producers in Quebec, providing industry standards, marketing support, and production research.
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A specialized research center dedicated to the science of maple syrup production, quality control, and innovation in maple products.
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Offering courses, recipes, and culinary innovations centered around maple syrup as a premium Canadian ingredient.
Visit WebsiteJoin our expert-led virtual sessions exploring all aspects of maple syrup production, history, and culinary applications. From beginners to professionals, our webinars provide valuable insights for everyone interested in maple culture.
Upcoming: April 12, 2023 | 2:00 PM EST
This beginner-friendly webinar covers everything you need to know to start collecting maple sap, from identifying suitable trees to installing taps properly. Our expert will demonstrate equipment options for hobbyists and discuss sustainable tapping practices.
Presenter: Jean Tremblay, 4th generation maple producer
Upcoming: May 5, 2023 | 1:00 PM EST
Learn to distinguish between maple syrup grades like Golden, Amber, Dark, and Very Dark. This session covers the official grading standards, sensory evaluation techniques, and how seasonal timing affects syrup characteristics.
Presenter: Dr. Marie Pelletier, Maple Quality Control Specialist
Upcoming: May 23, 2023 | 3:00 PM EST
Move beyond pancakes and discover maple syrup's versatility in both sweet and savory cuisine. Award-winning chef Michel Bergeron will demonstrate innovative recipes including maple-glazed salmon, maple vinaigrettes, and maple-infused desserts that highlight different syrup grades.
Presenter: Chef Michel Bergeron, Culinary Institute of Montreal
Have questions about maple syrup production, looking to connect with local producers, or interested in our educational resources? We'd love to hear from you!
325 Rue des Érables
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 7B3
Canada
(450) 773-8521
Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM EST
Weekends (Maple Season - March/April): 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM EST