Sourwood trees flower midsummer in the Blue Ridge Mountains [Les Appalaches]. Harvested at the end of the bloom when the nectar is sweetest, sourwood honey is highly floral, rich and buttery with a maple finish [It has a definite sweet and sour quality]. Amber in color, sourwood honey does not crystallize easily. It is a rare honey with a big local following, found primarily in the Southern United States.

Sourwood honey pairs well with Asian foods, and is the secret ingredient to many a Southern families heirloom barbecue sauces. It is also a real treat when served with buttery warm homemade biscuits.

Since this is a distinctly Southern honey, use it in ice tea, or try it sparingly with stronger green teas. [i.e. Gunpowder Green Tea].