The mastic of Chios is the resinous excretion of the mastic tree (Pistacia Lentiscus var. Chia). It is a natural, aromatic resin that is secreted from the trunk and large branches of the mastic tree through superficial incisions. Mastic appears as tears at the scored points and flows drop by drop into the soil. Upon secretion, it has the form of a sticky and clear liquid and solidifies into irregular shapes after 15-20 days, under the influence of intense dryness and sunshine. Once solidified, its shape is crystalline and its initial taste is rather bitter, gradually fading away, leaving a distinctive aroma. The solidified product is collected and cleaned by the mastic producers and constitutes the unique, natural mastic of Chios.