The boiled-down sap of the North American sugar maple, authentic maple syrup has a complex sweetness appreciated all over the world. Please be wary of synthetic imitations, which are nowhere near as good as the real thing.
Maple syrups are graded and categorised according to their colour and flavour, but names vary according to the different states in the US and Canada. I favour a medium amber or light amber top grade syrup.
Maple syrup should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 28 days of opening. To use in a cocktail, simply pour into a thimble measure and follow the recipe.