Maple syrup is actually the "sweet-water sap" from the Sugar Maple Tree, a large hardwood tree native to North America. From the soapberry family of trees (Sapindacea). In early spring, the bark of the the “sugar bush” is tapped or cut, and a watery sap drains from the tree… this is not the circulating sap that is necessary for the health of the tree, by the way. The sweet-water sap is then boiled to remove the water and a sweet, syrup results with complex flavor notes of vanilla, molasses, and caramel.