"The Maple Syrup Refining Plant" The Maple Syrup, direct from the barrel, passes through a series of complex filters and purifiers, each one more effective than the last, but invariably using the same technology that saw Stephenson apply steam so creatively, until the precious golden-brown liquid, as pure as it was when it was gathered from the glorious Maple trees of Vermont, arrives to provide the perfect accompaniment to the Splendid Pancake.