[Vermont] – Runamok Maple, the Vermont-based producer known for redefining maple syrup through innovative chef-driven flavors, announced the launch of its fifth annual New Flavor Contest – a crowd-sourced initiative that invites fans, food lovers, and culinary creatives to help shape the brand’s next maple syrup limited release.
Since its inception, the New Flavor Contest has become a cornerstone of Runamok’s product development philosophy, reflecting the company’s belief that the most exciting ideas often come from an engaged, passionate community. Each year, the contest opens a direct dialogue with customers, encouraging them to submit flavor concepts that push boundaries while staying rooted in Runamok’s commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and creativity.
“At Runamok, innovation isn’t just something that happens behind closed doors – it’s a conversation,” said Laura Sorkin, Co-Founder at Runamok Maple. “The New Flavor Contest gives us a chance to listen closely to our audience, learn how they’re cooking and eating, and turn that collective creativity into truly original products. Plus, it is fun to see just how outrageous the suggestions can be.”
The crowd-sourced model has proven highly successful. Past New Flavor Contest winners like Salted Caramel Maple (2023), Sugarmaker’s Dark Wood-Fired Maple (2023 runner-up), and Vanilla Bean Infused Maple (2024) have gone on to become standout additions to Runamok’s lineup, resonating strongly with both consumers and specialty retailers. Other winners like Pineapple Upside Down Maple (2022) and Blueberry + Lemon Maple (2025) reflect the latest food-trends in real time. These winning flavors not only demonstrate the culinary sophistication of the Runamok community, but also reinforce the brand’s ability to translate bold ideas into commercially successful products.
Now entering its fifth year, the contest underscores Runamok’s long-standing commitment to innovation within the specialty food space – particularly for an ingredient that is often overlooked for uses other than over a stack of pancakes. By continuously inviting outside perspectives into its product pipeline, Runamok has helped redefine what maple syrup can be, expanding its use from breakfast ingredient to versatile pantry staple.
Submissions for the Fifth Annual New Flavor Contest will be open from March 01-15, 2026, with voting rounds to follow from March 17-April 05. The winning flavor will be announced on April 06, 2026. The winning flavor will be available for pre-order at the end of the tournament and will be developed, produced, and released by Runamok before the end of the year.
For more information about the New Flavor Contest or to submit a flavor idea, visit runamokmaple.com/new-flavor-contest.
About Runamok Maple
Runamok is a family-owned, Vermont-based maple producer innovating maple syrup for the breakfast table and beyond. We offer a unique line of pure, barrel-aged, smoked, and infused syrups made with the highest quality ingredients, elegant packaging, and a commitment to environmental and social responsibility. Learn more at runamokmaple.com.
Media Contact:
Emily Cryan
Marketing Coordinator
Runamok Maple
802-849-7943