Nestled in the quaint town of East Montpelier, Vermont, Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift Shop offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages. This family-owned and operated business has been a beloved destination for over 50 years, showcasing the art of maple sugaring and offering a delightful array of Vermont-made products.
As we embark on a tour of Bragg Farm, we are greeted by the sweet aroma of maple syrup permeating the air. The sugar house, a testament to the region’s rich history of maple production, invites us into a world of tradition and craftsmanship.
Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift
Renowned for its maple sugaring heritage and exceptional products, Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift offers a captivating experience for visitors.
- Established in 1963
- Family-owned and operated
- Guided tours of sugar house
- Witness maple sugaring process
- Variety of Vermont-made products
- Maple syrup, jams, jellies
- Vermont crafts and souvenirs
- Picturesque location
- Educational and delightful
Whether you are seeking a glimpse into the art of maple sugaring, a taste of authentic Vermont products, or simply a memorable family outing, Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift promises an unforgettable experience.
Established in 1963
Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift has a rich history dating back to 1963, when it was founded by Richard and Ethel Bragg. The couple purchased a small farm in East Montpelier, Vermont, with a vision of sharing their passion for maple sugaring with others.
In the early years, the Braggs operated a modest sugar house, producing maple syrup the traditional way, using wood-fired evaporators and buckets to collect sap from the maple trees. As their business grew, they expanded their operation and began offering guided tours to visitors, providing an immersive experience into the art of maple sugaring.
Over the years, Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift has become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. The Bragg family’s commitment to quality and authenticity has earned them a reputation for producing some of the finest maple syrup in Vermont.
Today, Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift continues to be a family-run business, with Richard and Ethel’s children and grandchildren actively involved in its operation. The farm has grown to encompass over 1,000 acres of maple trees, and the sugar house has been modernized to incorporate state-of-the-art equipment while still honoring traditional methods.
Family-owned and operated
One of the things that makes Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift so special is its commitment to being a family-owned and operated business. The Bragg family has been involved in maple sugaring for generations, and they take great pride in producing high-quality maple syrup and other products.
- Generations of experience: The Bragg family has been sugaring for over 100 years, and they have passed down their knowledge and expertise from generation to generation.
- Commitment to quality: The Braggs are passionate about producing the best possible maple syrup, and they use traditional methods and high-quality ingredients to ensure that their products are of the highest quality.
- Personal touch: Because Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift is a family business, you can be sure that you will receive personalized service and attention. The Braggs are always happy to answer questions and share their knowledge about maple sugaring.
- Community involvement: The Braggs are actively involved in their community, and they support local organizations and events. They are proud to be a part of the East Montpelier community, and they are committed to giving back.
When you visit Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift, you are not just supporting a local business, you are also supporting a family tradition. The Braggs are dedicated to providing their customers with the best possible experience, and they are committed to producing high-quality maple syrup and other products for generations to come.
Guided tours of sugar house
One of the highlights of a visit to Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift is taking a guided tour of the sugar house. During the tour, you will learn about the history of maple sugaring in Vermont, and you will see firsthand how maple syrup is made. You will also have the opportunity to sample some of the farm’s delicious maple products.
The sugar house tour begins with a short walk through the maple forest. Here, you will learn about the different types of maple trees and how they are tapped for sap. You will also see the sap collection system that is used to gather the sap from the trees.
Once inside the sugar house, you will see the evaporator, which is used to boil the sap and concentrate it into syrup. You will also see the finishing tanks, where the syrup is cooled and filtered before it is bottled.
The tour concludes with a tasting of the farm’s maple products. You will have the opportunity to sample different grades of maple syrup, as well as maple candy, maple cream, and other maple treats.
The guided tours of Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift are a great way to learn about the history and process of maple sugaring. The tours are informative and engaging, and they are a fun activity for people of all ages.
Witness maple sugaring process
During your visit to Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift, you will have the opportunity to witness the maple sugaring process firsthand. The farm’s sugar house is a state-of-the-art facility that uses traditional methods to produce high-quality maple syrup.
- Tree tapping: The first step in the maple sugaring process is to tap the maple trees. This is done by drilling a small hole in the trunk of the tree and inserting a spile. The spile allows the sap to flow out of the tree and into a bucket.
- Sap collection: Once the trees have been tapped, the sap is collected in buckets. The buckets are emptied regularly and the sap is transported to the sugar house.
- Boiling the sap: The sap is boiled in an evaporator to remove the water content and concentrate the sugars. The boiling process takes several hours, and the sap is constantly monitored to ensure that it does not boil over.
- Grading the syrup: Once the sap has been boiled down to syrup, it is graded according to its color and flavor. The darkest syrup is Grade B, which has a strong maple flavor. The lightest syrup is Grade A, which has a more delicate flavor.
Witnessing the maple sugaring process is a fascinating experience. It is a chance to see how this delicious natural sweetener is made. You will also learn about the history of maple sugaring in Vermont and the importance of this industry to the state.
Variety of Vermont-made products
In addition to its delicious maple syrup, Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift also offers a variety of other Vermont-made products. These products are all made with high-quality ingredients and reflect the unique flavors of Vermont.
Some of the most popular Vermont-made products at Bragg Farm include:
- Jams and jellies: Bragg Farm makes a variety of jams and jellies using fresh fruit from local farms. The jams and jellies are made in small batches and are free from artificial flavors and preservatives.
- Maple candy: Bragg Farm’s maple candy is made with pure maple syrup and is a delicious treat for people of all ages. The candy is available in a variety of flavors, including traditional maple, chocolate, and cinnamon.
- Maple cream: Bragg Farm’s maple cream is made with pure maple syrup and butter. It is a smooth and creamy spread that is perfect for toast, pancakes, or waffles.
- Vermont crafts: Bragg Farm also sells a variety of Vermont-made crafts, including pottery, woodwork, and jewelry. These crafts are made by local artisans and are a great way to support the local economy.
Whether you are looking for a delicious snack, a unique gift, or a piece of Vermont history, Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift has something for everyone. The farm’s commitment to quality and its wide variety of products make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Vermont.
Maple syrup, jams, jellies
Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift is renowned for its delicious maple syrup, jams, and jellies. These products are all made with high-quality ingredients and are a true taste of Vermont.
The farm’s maple syrup is made from 100% pure maple sap and is available in a variety of grades, from light and mild to dark and robust. The syrup is perfect for pancakes, waffles, French toast, or simply enjoying on its own.
Bragg Farm’s jams and jellies are made with fresh fruit from local farms. The jams and jellies are made in small batches and are free from artificial flavors and preservatives. The jams and jellies are available in a variety of flavors, including strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, and peach.
Whether you are looking for a delicious breakfast treat or a unique gift, Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift’s maple syrup, jams, and jellies are sure to please.
Here are some of the benefits of Bragg Farm’s maple syrup, jams, and jellies:
- Made with high-quality ingredients: Bragg Farm’s products are made with the finest ingredients, including pure maple sap and fresh fruit. This ensures that the products are not only delicious but also nutritious.
- Free from artificial flavors and preservatives: Bragg Farm’s products are free from artificial flavors and preservatives. This means that you can enjoy the natural flavors of the products without having to worry about harmful additives.
- Support local farmers: Bragg Farm’s products are made with ingredients from local farms. This helps to support the local economy and ensures that the products are fresh and flavorful.
Vermont crafts and souvenirs
In addition to its delicious maple products and jams, Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift also sells a variety of Vermont crafts and souvenirs. These items are all made by local artisans and are a great way to support the local economy and take home a piece of Vermont with you.
- Pottery: Bragg Farm sells a variety of pottery items, including mugs, bowls, plates, and vases. The pottery is all handmade by local artisans and is available in a variety of styles and colors.
- Woodwork: Bragg Farm also sells a variety of woodwork items, including cutting boards, bowls, and furniture. The woodwork is all handmade by local artisans and is made from high-quality wood.
- Jewelry: Bragg Farm sells a variety of jewelry items, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. The jewelry is all handmade by local artisans and is made from a variety of materials, including silver, gold, and gemstones.
- Other crafts: Bragg Farm also sells a variety of other crafts, including candles, soap, and textiles. These items are all handmade by local artisans and are a great way to add a touch of Vermont to your home.
Whether you are looking for a unique gift or a special souvenir, Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift has something for everyone. The farm’s commitment to quality and its wide variety of products make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Vermont.
Picturesque location
Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift is located in the picturesque town of East Montpelier, Vermont. The farm is surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and babbling brooks. The setting is simply breathtaking and provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and enjoyable visit.
- Stunning views: The farm offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can enjoy views of the Green Mountains, the Winooski River, and the Vermont countryside.
- Peaceful setting: The farm is located in a peaceful and serene setting. Visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the peace and quiet of the Vermont countryside.
- Year-round beauty: The farm is beautiful year-round. In the spring, the trees are in bloom and the flowers are in full color. In the summer, the farm is a lush and green oasis. In the fall, the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. In the winter, the farm is covered in a blanket of snow and ice.
- Perfect for photos: The farm is the perfect place to take photos. Visitors can capture stunning photos of the scenery, the farm animals, and the sugar house.
Whether you are looking for a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the scenery or a perfect place to take photos, Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift is the perfect destination.
Educational and delightful
Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift is not only a delicious and picturesque destination, it is also an educational and delightful experience. Visitors can learn about the history of maple sugaring in Vermont, see how maple syrup is made, and even tap a maple tree themselves.
- Learn about maple sugaring: Visitors can learn about the history of maple sugaring in Vermont and the process of making maple syrup. The farm’s knowledgeable staff is always happy to answer questions and share their expertise.
- See how maple syrup is made: Visitors can see firsthand how maple syrup is made. The farm’s sugar house is a state-of-the-art facility that uses traditional methods to produce high-quality maple syrup.
- Tap a maple tree: Visitors can even tap a maple tree themselves. This is a fun and educational experience that gives visitors a chance to learn about the process of maple sugaring and to take home their own maple syrup.
- Delicious treats: Visitors can enjoy delicious maple treats, such as maple candy, maple cream, and maple sugar cookies. The farm also has a variety of other Vermont-made products, such as jams, jellies, and crafts.
Whether you are looking for a fun and educational experience or simply a delicious treat, Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift is the perfect destination. The farm is a great place to learn about the history and process of maple sugaring, and to enjoy the delicious fruits of this Vermont tradition.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift:
Question 1: What are your hours of operation?
Answer: We are open daily from 9am to 5pm.
Question 2: How much does it cost to take a tour of the sugar house?
Answer: Tours of the sugar house are free of charge.
Question 3: Can I tap a maple tree myself?
Answer: Yes, you can tap a maple tree yourself. We provide all of the necessary equipment and instruction.
Question 4: Do you sell maple syrup?
Answer: Yes, we sell a variety of maple syrup grades, from light to dark.
Question 5: Do you have any other Vermont-made products?
Answer: Yes, we sell a variety of Vermont-made products, including jams, jellies, crafts, and souvenirs.
Question 6: Can I bring my dog to the farm?
Answer: Yes, dogs are welcome on the farm, but they must be leashed at all times.
Question 7: Do you host events at the farm?
Answer: Yes, we host a variety of events throughout the year, including maple sugaring demonstrations, pancake breakfasts, and craft fairs.
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If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We hope to see you soon at Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift!
Now that you know more about Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift, here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:
Tips
Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit to Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift:
Tip 1: Plan your visit during the sugaring season. The sugaring season typically runs from March to April, but it can vary depending on the weather. If you visit during the sugaring season, you will be able to see the maple sugaring process in action and enjoy fresh maple syrup.
Tip 2: Take a tour of the sugar house. The sugar house tour is a great way to learn about the history of maple sugaring in Vermont and see how maple syrup is made. The tour is free of charge and lasts about 30 minutes.
Tip 3: Tap a maple tree. If you are feeling adventurous, you can tap a maple tree yourself. The farm provides all of the necessary equipment and instruction. This is a fun and educational experience that gives you a chance to learn about the process of maple sugaring and to take home your own maple syrup.
Tip 4: Bring your appetite. The farm has a variety of delicious maple treats, such as maple candy, maple cream, and maple sugar cookies. You can also enjoy a pancake breakfast or lunch at the farm’s restaurant.
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By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit to Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift. The farm is a great place to learn about the history and process of maple sugaring, and to enjoy the delicious fruits of this Vermont tradition.
Now that you know more about Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift and have some tips for making the most of your visit, we hope to see you soon!
Conclusion
Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Vermont. The farm offers a unique and educational experience that is fun for people of all ages. Visitors can learn about the history of maple sugaring in Vermont, see how maple syrup is made, and even tap a maple tree themselves.
In addition to its educational offerings, Bragg Farm also offers a variety of delicious maple products and Vermont-made crafts. Visitors can enjoy maple syrup, jams, jellies, candy, and cream. They can also browse a variety of Vermont-made crafts, including pottery, woodwork, jewelry, and textiles.
Whether you are looking for a fun and educational experience or simply a delicious treat, Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift is the perfect destination. The farm is a great place to learn about the history and process of maple sugaring, and to enjoy the delicious fruits of this Vermont tradition.
We hope you will visit us soon!