# Maple Syrup-Inspired Apple Brandies Sauvage Distillery Debuts the Upstate Brandy Maple Expression By Kalin Ned | Published 2025-08-07 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/brandy-maple References: [nosh](https://www.nosh.com/pr/2025/08/06/sauvage-distillery-launches-upstate-brandy-maple-a-flavorful-new-chapter-for-the-awardwinning-nys-producer)  Sauvage [Distillery](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/upstate-vodka-black-oxford), a New York-based craft spirits producer known for its innovative approach to apple-based liquors, has introduced [Upstate Brandy Maple](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/upstate-vodka), a new small-batch spirit that combines aged apple brandy with locally sourced maple syrup. This release represents the distillery’s first foray into aged spirits and builds upon its established portfolio of gluten-free and Kosher-certified vodkas. Sauvage Distillery's production process begins with fermenting juice from regional apples, which is then distilled and aged for a minimum of two years in ex-bourbon and American oak barrels before being blended with maple syrup from Schoharie County. The resulting Upstate Brandy Maple offers a complex flavor profile featuring notes of baked apple, caramel, and toffee. The product has earned a Double Gold Medal at the prestigious SIP Awards. Image Credit: Sauvage Distillery ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.4/10 - Popularity: 55% | Activity: 61% | Freshness: 47% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Drinking](https://www.trendhunter.com/drinking) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Craft Spirit Collaborations:** Collaborating with local producers, such as maple syrup farms, offers craft distilleries innovative avenues to create unique flavors. - **Aged-spirit Revival:** The resurgence of aged spirits combined with other ingredients like maple syrup appeals to consumers seeking rich and complex taste experiences. - **Award-winning Flavor Exploration:** Earning accolades at prestigious competitions drives interest in innovative flavor combinations that blend traditional methods with modern tastes. ### Who This Affects Most - **Craft Distilleries:** Small-batch producers can differentiate themselves by embracing local ingredients and customized aging processes that reflect regional terroir. - **Maple Syrup Production:** Partnering with craft spirits producers opens up new market opportunities for maple syrup farms looking to expand beyond traditional uses. - **Gourmet Food and Beverage:** The gourmet industry can benefit from the growing trend of artisanal spirits, which cater to consumers' demand for premium, unique taste profiles. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Pressed Apple-Based Spirits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/upstate-vodka.md) - [Sweet Apple-Based Brandies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/organic-apple-brandy.md) - [Maple Syrup-Finished Spirits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/glen-moray-spirits.md) - [Extremely Limited Vodka Expressions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/upstate-vodka-black-oxford.md) - [Brandy Barrel-Aged Whiskeys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/single-malt-whiskeys.md) - [Single-Forest Maple Syrups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sirop.md) - [Maple-Laced Spiced Ciders](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/spiced-ciders.md) - [Barrel-Aged Maple Barleywine](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/maple-barleywine.md) - [Brandy Barrel Aged Whiskeys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/barrel-aged-whiskey.md)