Local Producer Spotlight: Wild Country Maple Syrup
We’ve all had chocolate syrup on our ice cream, but have you ever tried maple syrup atop a few scoops of vanilla ice cream?
What about swapping in maple syrup for the brown sugar in baked beans?
Maple syrup can be used for so much more than just on pancakes, waffles, or French toast!
Forget Vermont’s maple syrup!
Minnesota’s own Wild Country Maple Syrup is the perfect way to change up your go-to recipes and ingredients!
Michael and Carrie Baker were loyal supporters of Wild Country Maple Syrup for years before it became their livelihood. During each trip to the North Shore, they would make a point to stop at Wild Country before returning to their Twin Cities home. But it was a trip to the Wild Country in 2015 that changed their lives forever.
While having coffee together one foggy, October morning, they began imaging what their lives could be if they were able to do anything they wanted. Having each been at the same job for some time and raised 3 kids, they were becoming disillusioned with their lives in the Twin Cities and were ready for a change. They loved all that the North Shore and Lutsen had to offer and began to rethink what life could be.
Michael and Carrie sat in silence, thinking about the future, they had come no closer to what the future could hold for them. After some time of silence, Michael suggested they drive to Wild Country sine they always enjoyed the ride (and the syrup). As was the morning, the ride was foggy and silent as they continued to contemplate. That’s when the sign arrived.
The “Sign”
A literal “for sale” sign was posted next to the turnoff to Wild Country. Wondering whether it was a sign from the universe or just an attempt to sell a house and a business, Michael and Carrie returned to the Twin Cities but couldn’t shake the vision of living on the North Shore and life on a maple syrup farm. After many conversations, they decided if they didn’t at least pursue the possibility of a future on the North Shore, they would regret it. They made the call to the realtor and after many months, the home and business became theirs! The next summer was spent training and learning the in’s and the out’s of maple syrup harvesting and a year simply living on the land, there’s no doubt the made the right decision.
And that cute pup you see on the label? That’s Michael and Carrie’s dog, Arlo!
Wild Country Syrup is made from 100% pure maple syrup in Lutsen, Minnesota, and is USDA organic. Pick up a 12.7 oz bottle of either flavor (Bourbon Barrel-Aged or Bourbon & Wine Barrel-Aged) in the grocery department for $24.99/each.
Learn more about Wild Country Syrup and their process on their website.