The Turkish name for Chios, “Sakız” (meaning gum), comes from mastic — a natural resin that drips from the trunk of the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus). On a commercial scale, this tree grows only in the villages of southern Chios.
How Is the White Gold Harvested?
In summer the bark is scored, and the flowing resin hardens into droplets known as “mastic tears.” Harvesting and cleaning are done entirely by hand — a painstaking craft passed down for centuries. The tradition is on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Where to Taste It
Mastic is used in chewing gum, liqueur (mastiha), sweets, ice cream, coffee and even cosmetics. In the shops of Chios town and the mastic villages you’ll find everything from pure resin to handmade products.
- Mastiha liqueur — a classic Aegean after-dinner treat
- Submada — mastic-flavoured confection
- Mastic coffee and ice cream