As a lover of spirits, it is always a delight to discover a product that is not only unique in taste, but also has a rich history. One such special drink is Skinos Mastiha, a Greek liqueur that has its roots deep in the traditions of the island of Chios.
In this blog, we dive into the fascinating world of Skinos Mastiha, where it comes from, how it is made, and what it tastes like.
The history of Skinos Mastiha
Mastiha, also known as mastic, is a resin extracted from the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia), which grows mainly on the island of Chios in Greece. The cultivation of mastic on Chios dates back to ancient times, with the first written records dating back to the 5th century BC. Known in ancient times for its medicinal properties, this resin has been used in a variety of applications over the centuries, from medicine to perfumery.
The name "Skinos" is derived from the Greek word "schinos," which refers to the mastic tree itself. Although mastic was used in various ways, over the years the idea of distilling this unique resin into a liqueur arose, resulting in the creation of Skinos Mastiha. The drink was first produced commercially in modern times and quickly became a much-loved liqueur in Greece and abroad.
What is Skinos Mastiha made of?
The most important and indispensable ingredient of Skinos Mastiha is mastic resin. The resin is extracted by making incisions in the bark of mastic trees. Once the resin seeps out of the tree, it hardens and is collected. After harvesting, the resin is purified and processed to serve as the base for the liqueur.
The distillation process is special because it manages to preserve the subtle, delicate aromas of the mastic resin. After distillation, the liquor is mixed with water, sugar and sometimes other botanical ingredients to create a balanced flavour profile. The end result is a clear, fragrant distillate with a unique flavour.
The taste of Skinos Mastiha
The taste of Skinos Mastiha is truly unique and difficult to compare with other liqueurs. The first thing you notice is the fresh, almost pine-like aroma reminiscent of a walk through a Mediterranean pine forest. The flavour is at once slightly sweet, spicy and savoury, with subtle notes of herbs and citrus. It has a slightly syrupy texture, which gives it a full mouthfeel without being heavy.
Skinos Mastiha is often served chilled, pure or with ice, to highlight its delicate flavours. It is also a versatile ingredient in cocktails, where it is often combined with citrus, gin, or even tonic for a refreshing twist. In Greek cuisine, it is sometimes used in desserts or as a digestif after a meal.
Conclusion
Skinos Mastiha is more than just a liqueur; it is a drink that embodies the essence of the island of Chios and its ancient traditions in every sip. Whether you're a newcomer to the world of Mastiha or already a seasoned fan, it's an experience you won't soon forget. Cheers to discovering a piece of Greek culture in a glass!
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