Honey Varieties Guide: Flavors, Colors and Uses
Honey tastes like the flowers it came from. The lightest honeys are mild and delicate; the darkest are bold, malty and less sweet. Use this guide to find the honey that fits how you'll use it.
Every honey we sell is raw, unfiltered, organic and kosher. We're beekeepers: our hives follow the bloom, and all of our honey is packed in California.
Honey varieties at a glance
| Variety | Color | Flavor | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avocado | Dark amber | Dark, buttery, molasses notes | Baking, coffee, cheese boards | Shop |
| Blackberry | Light amber | Smooth, subtly fruity | Toast, desserts | Shop |
| Blueberry | Light amber | Fruity, buttery, gently tart | Breakfast, yogurt, lemonade | Shop |
| Brazilian Wildflower | Amber | Fragrant, fruity, tangy finish | Tea, fruit, glazes | Shop |
| Buckwheat | Very dark brown | Malty, bold, less sweet | Baking, marinades, strong coffee | Shop |
| Cactus | Nearly white | Creamy, mild, delicate | Spreading, mild tea, fruit | Shop |
| California Wildflower | Medium amber | Balanced, floral, varies by season | Everyday use | Shop |
| Clover | Light amber | Mild, sweet, classic | Everyday use, baking, kids' favorite | Shop |
| Eucalyptus | Medium to dark amber | Bold, herbal, cool finish | Strong cheeses, marinades, hot tea | Shop |
| Gallberry | Light to medium amber | Thick, rich, slow to crystallize | Biscuits, baking, pancakes | Shop |
| Knapweed | Very light | Floral, caramel and anise notes | Cheese boards, coffee, bread | Shop |
| Orange Blossom | Light amber | Fresh citrus aroma, silky | Tea, dressings, glazes, baking | Shop |
| Sage | Water-white to pale gold | Mild, clean, gently floral | Tea, anyone who prefers a mild honey | Shop |
Light vs. dark honey
Light honeys (sage, cactus, knapweed, orange blossom, clover) are mild and won't overpower tea, yogurt or delicate desserts. Dark honeys (avocado, eucalyptus, buckwheat) have deeper, more complex flavors that stand up to coffee, baking, marinades and strong cheeses.
What does "raw and unfiltered" mean?
Raw honey is never pasteurized (heated to high temperatures). Unfiltered honey is strained to remove wax and debris but not ultra-filtered, so it keeps its natural pollen, aroma and character. Most supermarket honey is both heated and finely filtered.
Why does raw honey crystallize?
Honey is a supersaturated sugar solution, and over time glucose naturally forms crystals. It's a sign the honey hasn't been heavily processed, not that it has spoiled. Honeys high in fructose, like sage and gallberry, stay liquid longest. To re-liquefy, set the jar in warm (not boiling) water and stir.
How should I store honey?
Keep it tightly closed at room temperature, away from moisture. Don't refrigerate it, because cold speeds up crystallization. Stored properly, honey keeps for years.
Do not feed honey to infants under 12 months old.
