Division 5.3 Causal link between the geographical area and the quality or characteristics of the product (for PDO) or a specific quality, the reputation or another characteristic of the product (for PGI)

The product’s excellent reputation is the result of a combination of its innate properties and effective human intervention.

In any case, 'Mandarini Chiou' is held in great esteem by consumers, both in Greece and abroad, principally because of its characteristic aroma and its special flavour, factors that in the past were instrumental in the flowering of the local economy and the development of trade with European countries (Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, Poland and Germany). References to the above can be found in the writings of many famous travellers (Galland, Testevuide, Ζοlontas, Τοmbazis, Sgouros and Sotiriadou).

The physical environment has also made an important contribution to the product’s reputation, particularly the area’s soil and climate, while the propagation of the product’s special characteristics has been greatly facilitated by the integration of mandarin growing into the islands' wider economic and commercial environment.

Finally, it should be noted that the reputation of 'Mandarini Chiou' is due, to a great extent, to the special characteristics of the agricultural area in which it is grown - it is not by chance that the island is known as 'fragrant' Chios.