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SDdave
03-13-2016, 07:03 PM
Ok, I don't produce enough to warrant purchasing a grading set. So here is what I got. I am guessing Grade A Dark Amber and Grade A Amber but would like to know what the good people on the trader thought.

13757

Thanks,

SDdave
Urban Sugarmaker
03-13-2016, 07:26 PM
The dark one is definitely dark, in my opinion. The light one could be amber, but it might grade dark even if it's only slightly darker than a grading kit sample. The grades in the kits are the darkest allowed for each grade, and it can hard to tell from just a picture. Tasting samples is recommended as well. A grading kit is $20 and can be used for 2 seasons from what I gather reading on here.
Tapped Out
03-13-2016, 07:27 PM
Dave- looks to me that the one on the left (or bottom) is a very dark, and the other one is dark, but possibly on the edge of being an amber.
Sugarmaker
03-13-2016, 08:29 PM
top amber, bottom dark. you might invest in a Hanna Checker and you would not have to buy a grading kit ever.
Regards,
Chris
SDdave
03-13-2016, 08:46 PM
top amber, bottom dark. you might invest in a Hanna Checker and you would not have to buy a grading kit ever.
Regards,
Chris

Dammit...Just checked them out on their website. NOW I WANT ONE. Certainly looks easy to use.

SDdave
Urban Sugarmaker
03-13-2016, 08:54 PM
I have the Hanna grader and it's great, but just be sure your syrup is clear. Even a small amount of very fine suspended particles will cause to it grade darker than it really is. This can be a challenge sometimes with gravity filtration.
MISugarDaddy
03-14-2016, 06:15 AM
The Hanna grader for $59 is the best purchase anyone can make!!! Thanks to the other Traders on here for recommending it.
Gary
saphound
03-14-2016, 08:11 AM
Man, that is one awesome sap hauler, Gary! :cool:
highlandcattle
03-18-2016, 05:04 AM
Love the Hanna meter. I'm writing down the values. Amazing. Boy,this was someone's great idea!


450 taps on vacuum
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Sue @ Battel's Sugar Bush
03-23-2016, 03:27 PM
Do you live somewhere where grading is mandated? I'm in Michigan and our state department of ag does not require us to grade syrup so we don't.


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Ed R
03-23-2016, 04:04 PM
Its nice to know the grade of each barrel if your selling in bulk, that way there is no issue at the buyer. You need to know for contests, Plus I like keeping track. I don't label my grade in Mi either. The Hanna Meter works slick.