Tucked on the western edge of the rolling landscape of the Green Mountain National Forest sits one of our Mercantile Partners, maple syrup makers, Republic of Vermont. Founded by husband & wife team Annina & Ethan, Republic of Vermont works to produce raw honey and maple syrup stamped with the character of their home. They both grew up in Vermont and shared a dream of honoring agricultural traditions and raising their family close to the land, but weren’t always on this path. After starting a backyard hobby of beekeeping and maple syrup taping, they quit their jobs and dove in headfirst.

The Green Mountain area of central Vermont is abundant with gorgeous hiking trails, quaint farmstands, and camping spots. Should you be visiting in warmer months, you absolutely need to stop by the Goshen Blueberry Management Area, a preserved section of wilderness right near Republic of Vermont replete with roughly 200 acres of wild blueberries, free for the picking. Just keep your eyes peeled for feasting black bears!