i have just tapped a few birch trees for the first time. Is it just me or is anyone else thinking what is all the fuss about ?? i was expecting manna from the gods and all i got was this insipid clear fluid 
birch sap !!!
- Thread starter mike 01302
- Start date
Overrated i reckons..
I just tapped me first birch and i really like the taste, like a very weak elderflower cordial! How much do you need to tap to make wine / beer????
As Jonathan says it is an acquired taste but having said that it does differ (like a cup of tea) between trees and at different times from the same tree even. I seem to remember having a similar "oh - it's OK I guess, tastes a bit woody...." reaction the first time I tried it.
The best way I can describe it now is that it taste's 'birchy' if that makes sense
I like it!
The best way I can describe it now is that it taste's 'birchy' if that makes sense
I like it!
I'm hoping there'll still be some left in the trees when I get in to the woods on Friday! Fantastic stuff and only available for short periods.
Once you have taped and collected it what do you have to do to it before you can get drinking? Also what type of Birch do you guys use as we have a few silver birch I have my eye on
filter it through some cloth - kitchen paper and go for it!
Silver birch are as good as any in my opinion
As Jonathan says it is an acquired taste but having said that it does differ (like a cup of tea) between trees and at different times from the same tree even. I seem to remember having a similar "oh - it's OK I guess, tastes a bit woody...." reaction the first time I tried it.
The best way I can describe it now is that it taste's 'birchy' if that makes sense
I like it!
It's amazing the difference in flavours you get from tree to tree and from site to site, as well as the strength as the season creeps on.
After a few years you'll become a connoisseur and take a tasting glass with you
Don't forget MAPLE, much more sweetness and taste. For those who don't find enough "taste" in birch sap... I always think about minerals and vitamins in it. I tapped over 15 litres of sap this weekend and most of it is gone as everyone just couldn't stop drinking it. It must be the body that's crying for it at the moment.
I tapped over 15 litres of sap this weekend and most of it is gone as everyone just couldn't stop drinking it. It must be the body that's crying for it at the moment.
Is it not too late for tapping now? I have got my first gallon well brewed now and racked to settle off. Might try the maples tonight then if its not
