Cashew Feni, the Spirited 100% Goan Drink

Unlocking Goa’s Liquid Legacy: Cashew Feni, the Quintessential Goan Spirit

Feni or Fenny, is believed to have originated in the state of Goa, and it is thought to have been invented by the Portuguese and is now a traditional spirit synonymous with Goa just as Scotch is synonymous with Scotland, Tequila with Mexico, or Champagne with France! Cashew Feni, undoubtedly is Goa’s most famous triple or double distilled alcoholic spirit and depending on the process used, feni may even have 40% v/v alcohol. 

Cashew Feni, a traditional Goan spirit, is a unique and cherished Goan drink made from the fermented juice of cashew apples. With its strong flavor and centuries-old heritage, Cashew Feni offers an authentic taste of Goa’s vibrant culture. This potent liquor, often enjoyed as a celebratory drink, is known for its artisanal production methods and unmistakable kick. Whether sipped straight or mixed into cocktails, it has become a must-try for visitors. Curious about its origin and how to best enjoy it?

Dive in to discover the rich history and unique appeal of Cashew Feni, and elevate your next Goa experience!

This article was originally published on 25th August 2008
This article was last edited with enhanced content on 25th September 2024

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There are two types of non cashew feni, both of which are made from local ingredients. Coconut or palm feni is made from the sap drawn from the severed shoots on a coconut tree. This is known as toddy, in Goa and many other places in India and the men who collect the sap are toddy tappers. One can see toddy tappers working all year round. So palm feni is in plentiful supply at all times.

The more popular cashew feni is a spirit made mostly from the fermentation of cashew apple juice. It is served in restaurants and bars, and is also available for purchase in liquor stores.

The taste of feni varies, depending on the main ingredient, cashew apple ,  coconut sap, or  palm sap which are then mixed with spices.  Coconut feni is smoother and has a nutty flavor, while palm feni is stronger and has a more bitter taste. Cashew feni on the other hand has a fruity and strong flavor.  

Feni is served in a variety of ways. It can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed with other drinks. It can also be used to make cocktails.It is affordable and easy to find. It is also a flavorful drink that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

So what is cashew feni and how is it made?

The Process of Making Cashew Feni

Cashew or kaju feni is made from cashew apples and can only be made during the cashew season in March and April, making it a seasonal activity. The traditional method of making cashew feni is called the pot still method. The process of making Cashew Feni is a lengthy one that takes about two weeks to complete.

The cashew apple, when ripe, turns a yellow-orange color and the nut ripens outside it. Yes cashew is one of the very few fruits where the nut grows outside the fruit.!  When the fruit is harvested, the nuts are separated from the ‘apples’, and are laid out to dry in the sun. The apples meanwhile are placed in a pit and trampled by foot or crushed by juicer, to collect the juice.  

Both palm toddy and Kaju juice can also be drunk fresh immediately after collection and are said to be delicious. They soon start to ferment if left for just a few hours.. The extracted juice is then transferred to a fermentation vessel and left to ferment for about 10 days.

In a typical local method, the juice is placed in a large terra-cotta pot over a wood fire; the vapour exits through a tube, which typically passes through an oil drum filled with water, below which the distillate is collected. The first distillate is called ‘Uraq’ or ‘Urak’, which is of a very low strength (10% to 15%), making it a pleasant alcoholic drink. Distilling twice more results in a good, potent feni.

Goan Feni is often flavoured with spices like cardamom, nutmeg and cinnamon. 

By the time it comes out of the second distillation, Goa’s national drink has an alcoholic strength of around 30% to 35% proof and as per the locals, after third round it can go upto whopping 45% ! Beware how you consume it now! 

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It is said that Cashew Feni (Kaju Feni) will continue to ferment in bottles over time, so it’s best if it’s consumed within a few months of being made.

GI Tag – Geographical Indication Tag for Goan Feni

Goa’s Liquid Gem: Cashew Feni Receives GI Tag

Cashew Feni, the iconic Goan spirit, has now secured its Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This recognition ensures exclusive brand protection for local producers. Feni received Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2009, recognizing its cultural and geographical significance. This legal protection ensures that only spirits produced in Goa using traditional methods can be labeled as “Feni”.

Feni , thus, joins the GI league of Mexico’s tequila, Japan’s sake, and Russia’s vodka. Sip slow, savor Goa. 🌴🥂

Cultural Significance of Goan Feni (Kaju Feni)

Feni plays a central role in Goan celebrations, festivals, and rituals, often symbolizing joy and togetherness. From weddings to religious events, Feni is served as a traditional drink, representing Goan hospitality. In local bars, restaurants, and liquor stores, Kaju Feni is widely available, giving both locals and tourists a taste of Goa’s cultural spirit. Many bars even craft unique Feni-based cocktails, blending tradition with modern flavors.

Wondering where to try this iconic Goan drink or how to enjoy it like a local? Read on!

How to drink Cashew Feni ?

Although the feni is ready for drinking soon as it has been collected, traditionally it is sealed in huge Terra-cotta jars and is left to mature for anything up to a number of years.

Many people enjoy drinking straight feni, but it also makes a very pleasant mix with other juices. Uraq goes well with a squeeze of lime, while feni tastes great mixed with cola drinks.

Goans often advice not to drink it on an empty stomach and mix with other spirits and certainly not to swim after a couple of fenis.

But the best you will hear is ‘you don’t realize how strong it is until you get up’. 

Cashew Feni Cocktails 

Mixing Cashew Feni with other cocktails is a great way to add a touch of Indian flavor to your drinks.

Cashew Feni cocktails are a delicious and unique way to enjoy this traditional Indian liquor. You may combine it with other flavors to create a unique and delicious cocktails. Some of the flavors that work well with Feni include citrus, ginger, and coconut.

The cocktails are perfect for a party or any other gathering and they are sure to be a hit with everyone. They are easy to make, and the ingredients can be easily found at most stores. If you are looking for a unique and delicious drink to enjoy, then be sure to try a Cashew Feni. Here are some recipes for you to try. 

Feni Mojito

Crush the apple slices with the sugar in the bottom of a highball glass. Stir thoroughly and top with ice. Add the Kazkar Feni cashew apple liqueur, top off with apple juice and stir. Garnish with an apple wheel and lime wedge, and serve.

Ginger Feni

Add 60ml Feni to a tall glass and squeeze the ginger juice using a strainer.Drop in the ice cubes. Pour the lemonade into the glass from a height in short bursts

Urak or Uraq

Even Urak may be used to create innovative cocktails with Limca or Sprite and a wedge of lemon. 🙂 

We will be happy if you share here your own recipes of cashew feni cocktails! 😀

Sustainability and Preservation

The sustainability of Cashew Feni production hinges on the seasonal nature of cashew apple harvesting, which occurs only during summer in Goa. This ensures that Feni is crafted from fresh, organic ingredients, maintaining its authentic flavor. Preserving these natural processes is vital for protecting Feni’s unique artisanal heritage.

Efforts to safeguard traditional Cashew Feni production are growing, with local initiatives focused on eco-friendly farming and artisanal distillation techniques. Supporting these sustainable practices ensures that Feni remains a symbol of Goa’s cultural legacy while minimizing environmental impact.

By choosing locally produced Cashew Feni, consumers support small-scale farmers and help preserve Goa’s rich traditions. Interested in making a difference? Your choice sustains both the environment and the cultural identity of this cherished Goan spirit for future generations.

Some Dos and Don’ts about Feni

• Do Not Swim After Consuming Feni: Swimming while intoxicated can impair judgment and coordination. Wait until the effects wear off for your safety.
• Do Not Drink It on an Empty Stomach: Feni can quickly lead to intoxication and nausea without food. Pair it with a hearty meal for a better experience.
• Mix Feni with Other Alcoholic Drinks at Your Own Risk: Mixing feni with other spirits can increase intoxication and hangover risk. Proceed with caution if you choose to mix.
• Urak is Milder and Fruitier than Cashew Feni: Urak, made from the first distillation of cashew apples, offers a lighter, fruitier alternative to traditional cashew feni (kaju Feni)
• If You Can Handle It, Drink Neat: Drinking feni neat allows you to appreciate its unique flavors and aromas fully. Just remember to pace yourself!
• Sip Responsibly: Feni is a strong drink, usually around 30-40% alcohol, so take your time with it! Savor its unique flavors and embrace the lively Goan vibe—after all, no one wants a feni hangover to spoil their beach day!
• Know Its Strength: Feni might seem harmless, but it has a kick! Even if you’re a seasoned drinker, it’s wise to keep track of how much you’ve had. One too many might lead to some unexpected table dancing! Always be aware of your limits.
• Pair with Local Cuisine: Elevate your feni experience by enjoying it alongside delicious Goan dishes like spicy vindaloo or flavorful fish curry. The bold tastes of the food and feni create an unforgettable culinary adventure!
• Understand Its Uniqueness: Remember, feni is one-of-a-kind to Goa, made from either cashew apples or coconut sap. It’s unlike vodka or rum, offering its own distinct flavor and aroma. For the best experience, opt for GI-tagged feni to ensure authenticity!
• Explore Distilleries: For a deeper dive into the world of feni, visit a local distillery. You’ll get to learn about the traditional distillation process and sample different varieties. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Goa’s rich culture while enjoying this beloved spirit!

Useful Information about Goa

More about Cashew Feni

• Feni Tasting in Goa
  Ever done a wine tasting? Now, try a feni tasting at a local distillery. Warning: You might not be able to walk out as gracefully as you walk in.
• Cashew Feni vs Coconut Feni
  Can’t decide between cashew feni and coconut feni? Cashew is the crowd favorite with its fruity punch, while coconut is the less famous but smoother sibling. Pro tip: Try both and see which one feni-shes first!
• How to Drink Feni Like a Local
  Straight up or with limca, feni is best enjoyed with friends by a Goan beach shack. It’s Goa’s version of a pick-me-up—or a knock-me-down depending on how much you drink.
• Feni and Its Potent Aroma
  If you’re wondering why feni smells so strong, it’s because it’s naturally distilled. Don’t worry, after a few sips, you’ll forget all about it!
• Best Places to Try Feni
  Sip on feni at local joints like Mish Mar, Martin’s Corner, or even at Goa’s famous beach shacks like Curlies. It’s Goa in a glass—salty, fruity, and unforgettable!
• Feni: Goa’s Liquid Heritage
  UNESCO Intangible Heritage status for feni? Yes, please! This drink is as old as Goa’s Portuguese history, giving it a rich cultural background to savor with each sip.
• How Feni is Made?
  The process of making feni is as fascinating as it is laborious. Cashew apples are crushed, fermented, and then distilled in traditional earthen pot-ovens called bhattis. Who knew getting tipsy could have such a long backstory?
• Feni Cocktails for Beginners
  Not a fan of drinking feni neat? Mix it into cocktails like Feni Mojitos or Feni Coladas. It’s Goa’s answer to your classic pina colada—tropical, strong, and very vacation-worthy.
• Health Benefits of Feni
  Did you know feni has antibacterial properties? It’s like medicine—if medicine tasted like Goa in a bottle. Some even say it helps digestion, but that might just be an excuse for more rounds!
• Feni and Goan Cuisine Pairing
  Pair your cashew feni with spicy Goan dishes like sorpotel or vindaloo. The fiery food and punchy feni create a match made in Goan heaven.
• Feni’s Legal Drinking Age
  Heads up! The legal drinking age in Goa is 18. So, make sure you’re of age before diving into feni—you wouldn’t want your Goan vacation to end with a fine!
• Feni at Goan Weddings
  A true Goan wedding isn’t complete without free-flowing feni. Just make sure not to challenge a Goan uncle to a feni drinking contest—you’ll lose.
• Feni Production in Goa
  Feni is produced mostly in South Goa, in places like Ponda and Sattari. If you’re looking for an authentic Goan experience, visit a local feni distillery tour.
• Feni and Its Hangover Reputation
  Contrary to popular belief, feni is less likely to give you a hangover because it’s pure and organic. But let’s be real—moderation is key, or you might wake up hugging a coconut tree!
• Buying Feni as a Souvenir
  Bringing home feni as a souvenir? Buy it from local liquor stores or flea markets, and make sure it’s GI-tagged feni to guarantee authenticity. Your friends will either thank you or ask for water!
• Feni Festivals in Goa
  Don’t miss the annual Feni Utsav (Feni Festival) in Goa, where you can drink, dance, and celebrate this beloved local spirit. Just be sure to pace yourself—it’s a marathon, not a sprint!
• Feni and the Goan Susegad Lifestyle
  Feni is more than a drink—it’s a lifestyle. Embrace the laid-back Susegad vibe of Goa by sipping feni slowly, with the sound of the waves as your background music.
• Feni: The Goan Party Starter
  Forget the usual vodka or rum. In Goa, the real party starts with feni. It’s your ultimate Goan pregame drink that’ll get the beach bonfire going—literally and figuratively!
• Feni’s Eco-Friendly Distillation Process
  Feni is an eco-friendly drink made using natural fermentation. It’s Goa’s gift to the world that not only tastes good but is sustainable. Drink feni, save the planet—one sip at a time!

Tips and Tidbits about Goa

• Best Time to Visit: The peak tourist season is from November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
• Local Language: Konkani is the local language, but English and Hindi are widely spoken.
• Rent a Scooter: Renting a scooter is the most convenient and fun way to explore Goa. Don’t forget your driving license!
• Party Scene: Head to North Goa for vibrant nightlife and famous beach parties, especially in areas like Baga and Anjuna.
• Peaceful South Goa: For a more relaxed, laid-back vibe, South Goa offers quieter beaches like Palolem, Agonda, and Butterfly Beach.
• Dudhsagar Falls: Visit these stunning four-tiered waterfalls, especially during the monsoon season, for breathtaking views and a fun trek.
• Beach Shacks: Try out local beach shacks for delicious Goan seafood and a relaxed dining experience right on the sand.
• Portuguese Architecture: Explore Old Goa for its beautiful colonial churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral.
• Sunset Cruise: Take a sunset cruise along the Mandovi River to experience scenic views and some cultural performances.
• Local Markets: Don’t miss the vibrant flea markets at Anjuna and Mapusa for handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.
• Alcohol is Cheap: Goa has low taxes on alcohol, making it one of the cheapest places to enjoy drinks in India.
• Water Sports: Get adventurous with water sports like parasailing, jet-skiing, and windsurfing, particularly on beaches like Calangute and Baga.
• Casinos: Goa is one of the few places in India where gambling is legal. Visit the floating casinos in Panjim for a night of fun.
• Respect the Culture: While Goa is liberal, it’s important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites like churches and temples.
• Beach Cleanliness: Though popular, North Goa beaches can get crowded and messy. If you want cleaner, less commercialized beaches, head to South Goa.
• Goan Cuisine: Try local Goan dishes like fish curry rice, pork vindaloo, and bebinca (a local dessert).
• Night Markets: The Arpora Saturday Night Market is a fun place to shop, eat, and enjoy live music under the stars.
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Visit the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary or the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary for a break from the beaches.
• Local Festivals: If you’re in Goa during February/March, don’t miss the Goa Carnival, a lively festival with parades, music, and street performances.
• Sunset Views: For some of the best sunset views, visit Chapora Fort, a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike.

Goa Weather

The weather in Goa is sultry, tropical, with a wet and a dry season. The temperature is usually around 30 degrees Celsius, with a fair amount of humidity. The rainy season is from June to September, and the rest of the year is mostly dry. While December to February is the best time to visit, as it is not as hot and the rains have stopped, Goa in rains has its own charm.

Where to stay in Goa, India

There are accommodations available in Goa for every budget and preference. You may check out the following links as per your choice.

For best deals in Luxury hotels, Click here

For best deals in Midrange hotels, Click here

For best deals in budget hotels, Click here

How to reach Goa, India?

Goa, India is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich Portuguese heritage. If you’re wondering how to reach Goa, here’s a breakdown of the best travel options:

By Air: The most convenient way to reach Goa is by flying into Dabolim International Airport (GOI), which is well-connected to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and even international destinations. Many airlines offer regular flights, especially during the tourist season.

By Train: For budget travelers or those who love scenic journeys, Goa is accessible via rail. Key railway stations include Madgaon Junction and Vasco da Gama. Popular trains like Konkan Kanya Express and Mandovi Express provide beautiful views of the Western Ghats.

By Road: If you’re up for a road trip, Goa is well-connected by national highways. You can drive or take buses from cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore. The journey along the NH66 offers breathtaking coastal views.

By Sea: Though less common, some luxury cruises from Mumbai operate during the tourist season. If you’re looking for an adventurous and unique way to travel, this can be a memorable option.

Getting around Goa

Once in Goa, you can easily explore with scooter rentals or hire taxis for local sightseeing. Other option is to hire a cab. We once explore a part of it using only public transport. It is cheap! However it takes a lot of time to go from one place to another. It is effective but not efficient 🙂

Summary

Goan cashew feni, an iconic local beverage, stands distinct in the vast world of alcoholic drinks, holding its place among global favorites like whisky, wine, beer, and gin. Its production, employing traditional pot distillation methods using earthen pots, has been a craft passed down through generations. Unlike mass-produced drinks like whiskey or bourbon, cashew feni is fermented naturally without the use of added yeast, drawing parallels with artisanal beverages like American moonshine, Irish whiskey, or even coconut palm arrack from various regions. With an ABV (alcohol by volume) that varies, feni offers a unique taste, blending the rich flavor of cashew apples.

In the face of global regulations, from the United States’ prohibition era to Australia’s temperance movements, feni has managed to carve its niche, thanks to Goa’s relaxed laws around alcohol consumption. It thrives in a state known for its coconut feni, small distilleries, and rich heritage. While other nations like Russia, Scotland, and Canada may be known for their vodka, scotch, and rye, Goa’s feni remains unmatched in flavor and local identity. This distinct drink, often compared to beverages like arak or shochu, reflects the diverse and flavorful history of India’s alcohol culture, from desi daru to more refined products.

Though feni is consumed across various settings, from bars to local celebrations, it faces competition from more widely known spirits such as malt whisky, baijiu, and sherry. However, cashew feni remains a symbol of Goan tradition, much like the coconut palm feni produced in small quantities. It serves as a reminder of how local, artisanal beverages can stand proudly alongside world-renowned drinks, holding their own in the vast landscape of alcohol consumption.

#TraditionalBeverage #AlcoholCulture #WorldSpirits #IndianDrinks

FAQ about Goan Cashew Feni

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