Chef Grey Poupon

The Varieties of Honey

November 15, 2007 – 9:21 am

Whereas I do know a thing or two about mustard, when it comes to honey, it is a whole other ball of wax! As I mentioned before, Grey Poupon Savory Honey Mustard uses clover honey to give it that perfect balance of sweetness. But what about buckwheat, lavender and sage–is there truly a difference?

First of all, honeys made from a single type of flower are called monofloral honeys. The flowers from which the bees derive the nectar determine the flavor of the honey. Apparently, there are over 300 varieties of honey in the United States alone. I’ve done a little research and compiled some information on the most popular ones.




Here it is:
• Alfalfa Honey. Alfalfa honey is produced widely in the western United States and Canada. It is light in color with a mild flavor and is generally used as a table honey.

• Buckwheat Honey. This honey is found primarily in the cool, moist northern United States such as Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. It is dark brown with a distinct flavor and is higher in antioxidants than many of the lighter honeys.

• Clover Honey. Clover honey is what makes Grey Poupon Savory Honey Mustard taste so good! It ranges from white to amber and has a sweet, mild, flowery flavor.

• Lavender Honey. Popular in France, lavender honey is also produced in California. It is dark with a deep, rich flavor.

• Orange Blossom Honey. As one would expect, this honey is produced primarily in California, Florida and Texas. It has a light citrus flavor.

• Sage Honey. A favorite amongst honey packers, sage honey is slow to granulate. It has a mild, yet delightful flavor.

• Tupelo Honey. Produced from the Tupelo gum trees that grow primarily in northwest Florida, this honey is light gold with an almost greenish cast and will not granulate. With a mild taste, it makes a delicious table honey.

With so many different flavors to choose from, it is almost overwhelming, but I think I’ll be sticking to the delicate clover in Grey Poupon Savory Honey Mustard.