Sourwood trees flower midsummer in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Appalachian. Harvested at the end of the bloom when the nectar is sweetest, sourwood honey is highly floral, rich and buttery with a maple finish. 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.