You are viewing this article in the AnnArbor.com archives. For the latest breaking news and updates in Ann Arbor and the surrounding area, see MLive.com/ann-arbor
Posted on Wed, Feb 29, 2012 : 6:10 a.m.

Taste maple syrup varieties at the Pittsfield Grange on March 11

By Jim and Janice Leach

maplesyrupbear.jpg

We call him Maple Syrup Bear

Janice Leach | Contributor

The word on the street is that maple syrup time is coming early this year, due to our mild winter.

What better way to celebrate the rising of the sap and the coming spring than by attending a Maple Syrup Tasting event on Saturday, March 11 from 2-4:30 p.m. at the Pittsfield Grange. The Grange is located at 3337 Ann Arbor-Saline Road in Ann Arbor.

Participants will have the opportunity to taste several local (and a non-local) maple syrups. This comparison will help tasters find their favorite sugar bush! All varieties will be easily available at local markets, so you'll be able to find your favorite again after the event. Attendees will also learn about "vintages" of maple syrup, what makes for ideal syrup-growing conditions, and other maple syrup facts.

If you wish to attend, you must register here. Events tend to fill up quickly, so register early to ensure your spot.

This event is sponsored by Preserving Traditions, a local organization that "seeks to de-mystify home food preservation so folks can eat local foods year-round. Through workshops and demonstrations, you'll learn the skills you need to can, pickle, bake, and make specialty items like cheese."

I've attended lots of workshops from Preserving Traditions. They are always fun and interesting and definitely worthwhile. I am excited about attending the maple syrup tasting with a roomful of maple syrup lovers!

Janice and Jim Leach tend a backyard plot in downtown Ann Arbor, where they try to grow as many vegetables and other plants as possible. For the last four years, they've published gardening tips, photos and stories at their 20 minute Garden website.