Despite what you were told in school, straight As aren't always ideal--especially when it comes to maple syrup. Grade A syrup is the lightest in color, with a delicate flavor and a slightly thick consistency. It's also usually the most expensive. But my heart belongs to Grade B. Dark and robust, it's what I want on my pancakes. And, most important, it's what you want for all that holiday baking. Grade A simply gets lost in baked goods, which is a waste of money. And that, as any A student will tell you, is just not smart. --Janet McCracken