The finest, thinnest inner bark of the tree is used to make Alba, the highest and most costly grade of Ceylon cinnamon, which produces delicate, pale golden brown quills with a diameter of 6-7 mm. These high-quality sticks have a powerful, sophisticated perfume and a very mild, sweet flavor. They are expertly peeled by hand. When stored in sealed containers, in a cool, dry location, and shielded from direct sunlight, they have an amazing shelf life of more than two to three years. Alba cinnamon is sensitive and should never be kept in the freezer or refrigerator since moisture leads to mold growth and deterioration.
