Vermont Maple Sugarmakers take justifiable pride in their products.  They treasure the results of their labors in the sugar woods and in the sugarhouse - the sparkling clear maple syrup - just the right thickness - the superb flavor for which Vermont is famous.  Every batch must meet the standards of clarity, color, density and flavor that are set out by Vermont law. Samples are compared with a grading kit to determine grade color, with a hydrometer or similar instrument to check density, and finally the sugarmaker tastes the syrup to make certain that the flavor matches the color and the grade.  And although all of the tests are necessary to assure quality that is worthy of being labeled Pure Vermont Maple Syrup, it is that final flavor check that hints to the sugarmaker that perhaps this batch is an award winner!  Saved in a pint jar in the freezer, the syrup will be delivered on the appointed day to the Vermont Maple Festival judges, where all syrups entered are carefully evaluated by an experienced panel.  Blue ribbons are awarded to those who qualify, and one entrant is chosen to be superior in each grade.  Then, suspense mounts as the most outstanding syrup is announced at the Festival Maple Banquet - “Best of Show” receives the coveted C. Blake Roy award!

A NEW Maple Festival Award for 2006, the 40th Anniversary,  has been established by the Franklin County Sugarmakers' in memory of Cleon Gillilian, a noted sugarmaker and long-time Festival volunteer, who was killed in 2005 in a woods accident. Cleon was frequently the recipient of awards for the outstanding quality of his maple syrup. It is for that reason that a $50 prize has been established in his name for the best Vermont Fancy maple syrup. The award, which recognizes excellence in sugarmaking and remembers Cleon's selfless volunteerism, will be made annually at the banquet, and will be a way to honor the memory of one of the Festival's most faithful workers.

Maple Sugar Cakes, Maple Cream, Maple Granulated Sugar, Pure Maple Fudge with Nuts, and the Best Display of Pure Maple Products are also judged, and winners are selected according to the highest standards of excellence.      

MAPLE COOKING CONTEST

Good enough to eat!  Not only are the maple cooking contest entries a sight to behold, they are “mapley” delicious!   The lucky judges taste luscious Cakes, perfect Pies, unique Preserves, Sauces and Dressings, and all sorts of delectable Breads.  There are categories for both Adults and Youth (age 14 and under.)  Many entries qualify for Blue Ribbons and cash prizes; the best in each class receives a special ribbon and additional cash prize.  One Adult and one Youth Cook is chosen as Vermont’s Best Maple Cook and Vermont’s Best Youth Cook.  They receive special sashes, and ride in places of honor in the Parade.   Best of all for those who admire the entries, the recipes accompany each  product, so even though Festival goers cannot taste the entries, they can try them in their own home kitchens!