Vermont is famous world-round for its pure maple syrup. Runamok Maple takes that syrup to the next level by combining it with unique and unexpected flavors.
For those people out there who still think maple syrup is only good for pancakes, Runamok Maple will blow their minds. These folks have created incredible flavor combinations with their maple - flavors that go way beyond breakfast.
What is it?
At its heart, this is certified organic Vermont maple syrup. Where Runamok goes a step beyond is that the syrups are infused with flavor - some flavors you might expect if you're in a breakfast state of mind, such as their Cinnamon & Vanilla, or Holiday Spice. But many are really unexpected, unique and delicious. How about maple infused with hibiscus, or coffee? They have a maple syrup aged in bourbon barrels, one flavored with Makrut lime leaf, and another that tastes of a delicate, floral jasmine tea.
The syrup I picked up is their spicy variety infused with smoky merquén chili peppers. It packs a lot of heat, along with a lovely balance between the sweetness of the maple and the smoke of the peppers.
What's the story behind it?
The Vermont-based Runamok is owned by husband and wife team Eric and Laura Sorkin. They've been producing their maple syrup for over a decade, and have seen the popularity of their syrup and the size of their company grow significantly in the last several years. They've received a fair amount of national mentions, including a spot on Oprah Winfrey's Favorite Things gift idea list in 2016.
Where is it made?
Runamok taps maple trees on over 1,000 acres in Franklin County up in Northwestern Vermont. The syrup is produced at their sugarhouse in Cambridge. Their manufacturing facility is located there as well, in the building where wood tiles for Scrabble board games used to be made!
Why I like it
It's Vermont maple syrup so of course it's going to taste heavenly. With Runamok specifically, I really enjoy the creativity of their flavors. I confess to being really hooked on this spicy Merquén Infused syrup.
I have a salad dressing recipe made with maple syrup that I can't wait to try with this fiery version.
How to enjoy it:
How you enjoy these syrups depends a lot on which variety you pick up. Runamok has several spiced flavor infusions that would be delicious to try with sweets, baked goods, and fruit. The smoked and spicy varieties are great for grilled meats and vegetables, and drizzled over cheeses.
Their website has ideas for what to pair with the different infusions. There are recipes here as well, such as Maple Orange Tea Cake and a Maple Mai Tai.
Where to find it
Explore and shop for all the varieties of Runamok Maple on their website. You can also find it in stores and specialty food shops across the country. Some of these stores for Vermonters include City Market in Burlington, Manchester Country Store, Vermont Country Deli in Brattleboro, and Commodities Natural Market in Stowe and Winooski.
Hungry For Vermont is me sharing some of my favorite Vermont specialty and gourmet foods: unique and delicious eats and drinks made right here in the Green Mountain State. All of the products I share are ones that I've tried, love, use, and that I'm hungry for! All opinions are my own.
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