We're thrilled to announce the latest addition to our handcrafted collection: Virginia Maple Caramels — a sweet tribute to our Virginia roots that captures the essence of the Old Dominion in every indulgent bite.

A Taste of Virginia Heritage

These signature caramels showcase the very best of local Virginia ingredients, featuring rich Highland County Virginia maple syrup from Sugar Tree Country Store at their heart. Located in the scenic mountains of McDowell, Virginia, this family-owned sugar house produces premium grade maple syrup from sugar maples growing at elevations of 3,000 to 4,000 feet, where the air is pure and the mountain streams are crystal clear. 

Photos courtesy Highland County Chamber of Commerce

Each piece begins with our classic handmade caramel base — crafted with fresh cream, butter, and pure cane sugar — then elevated with the deep, complex sweetness that only authentic Virginia mountain maple syrup can provide.

But we didn't stop there. Each caramel is lovingly dipped in our fine milk chocolate and finished with Alaea red sea salt, creating a perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and rich flavors that dance on your palate.

The Gearhart's Difference

At Gearhart's, we've been committed to traditional techniques and innovative flavor combinations since 2001. Our Virginia Maple Caramels embody this philosophy perfectly — honoring time-tested candy-making methods while celebrating the unique terroir of our Virginia home.

Highland County maple syrup isn't just any sweetener; it's a testament to Virginia's agricultural heritage and the skilled artisans who tap these ancient mountain maples each spring.  Combined with our signature milk chocolate blend and the mineral-rich Alaea red clay sea salt, these caramels offer a complexity that mass-produced confections simply can't match.

Like all our chocolates, these caramels are made in small batches in our Charlottesville facility, where every piece receives the individual attention it deserves. You can even watch our chocolatiers at work through our production kitchen windows — a testament to our commitment to transparency and craftsmanship.

Ready to taste Virginia in a whole new way? Visit us online or stop by our shop to experience these sweet celebrations of our beautiful state. Trust us — your taste buds will thank you.

Available now at gearhartschocolates.com and in our Charlottesville and Richmod locations. As with all our chocolates, we ship nationwide with care and attention to ensure your Virginia Maple Caramels arrive in perfect condition.