When we think of maple syrup production, we immediately think of Canada or the US- two countries in North America, home to the treasured 'Sugar Maple' and the icy winters we collocate with this liquid gold. However, syrup production from trees isn't unique to America. In fact, birch syrup and sap production from trees dates back to ancient times in both Europe and Asia. Korea, for instance, harvests sap from gorosoe maple for its health benefits as told by legend.

You might have thought- or heard- the misconception that maple syrup can only be produced in America, but the truth is that maple syrup can be produced nearly everywhere with varying degrees of success. A study from Poland indicated similar sugar levels in tree sap of trees grown in Poland, thus being a relatively untapped market in Europe.

The general rule is that syrup can be produced anywhere where temperatures fall below freezing during the night and above freezing during the day, although even if these conditions aren't possible in your climate, don't worry- there are alternative methods for syrup production!

The value of maple syrup exports are rising with exports worth millions of dollars within Europe. From this alone, it is clear that now is a better time than any to start producing syrup, so with the introduction over, it's time to get into the basics.