A rare, aromatic honeydew honey from the fir forests of Arcadia
Fir honeydew honey is collected from the secretions of scale insects living on Greek fir trees (Abies cephalonica) in the mountainous Arcadia region of the Peloponnese. Unlike flower honeys, honeydew honeys come from tree sap processed by aphids and scale insects, then collected by bees. Fir honeydew is prized for its mild, aromatic character — less intense than pine honeydew but with a distinctive woody, slightly resinous quality. It's one of the most sought-after honeys in Greece and rarely leaves the country in significant quantities.
What makes fir honeydew honey worth seeking out
Honeydew honeys have significantly lower GI than most flower honeys due to their different sugar composition — higher in oligosaccharides.
Contains elevated levels of potassium, magnesium, iron, and other minerals — honeydew honeys are consistently more mineral-rich than nectar honeys.
Among the highest antioxidant levels of any honey type. The dark color and complex origin contribute to exceptional phenolic content.
Very resistant to crystallization, making it ideal for drizzling and everyday use without warming.
Common questions about fir honeydew honey
Yes. While it's not made from flower nectar, it's produced by bees from the sweet secretions of tree-dwelling insects — a process recognized worldwide as genuine honey production. Honeydew honeys are a well-established category.
Fir honeydew is milder, more aromatic, and less resinous than pine honeydew. Pine honeydew has a more assertive, mineral flavor. Both are excellent but appeal to different preferences.
Greek specialty food importers and premium honey retailers. Look for honeys specifically labeled 'Mainalo fir' or 'Abies' from Arcadia. Generic 'forest honey' is usually a different product.
Each variety has its own unique characteristics and benefits
Our top-rated pick — also available in the Honey Finder
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Classic German Black Forest honeydew honey — collected from fir tree secretions rather than flower nectar. Dark, complex, malty, and never cloying. The gold standard of forest honey.