The end of the maple syrup collection for 2013

These are the range of colours and qualities in the year's process.
the lightest shade is as sweet as the darker ones but is usually how the first syrup of the season comes out. Ice cream and candy makers like this syrup. Cooks and bakers prefer the richer colours with a depth of flavor. Amber is what cookbooks often recommend.
Previously we saw the sap being pumped into the large tank on the back of the truck. It takes 40 gallons of raw sap evaporated down to make a single quart of maple syrup. A lot of wood fires the evaporator. In the off season the owners run a landscaping and tree removal service. Fuel for the future fires.
It seems possible to ship quarts of syrup over there to you in the U.K. who have asked about it. Shipping weight for a quart of maple syrup packed is 15# (12# without the boxing.)
The photos on flicker could answer more to f the "how" questions of the process. Or just ask me something because I learned a lot more from Peter today.

As I left the Oxford maple syrup property right across the 2 lane highway is a mechanic's shop called "Boy's Toys." Looks like a fun future blip. And... on my way out t the O.m.s. Co. I passed a bright yellow mustang for sale at the used car and truck lot in the center of Oxford. Oh, more blips.

There are several photos (12) I got today at the maple syrup company. Too many for one blip, so I started a Flicker account under 'miss winterfinch's' name. First time doing this so I hope it comes out okay.

Oxford Sap to Syrup Process