About the Product
Goa is known for its variety of drinks and liquor. Just as Scotch is to Scotland and Tequila to Mexico, Goa has a traditional liquor called Feni, which is exclusively synonymous with it. It has a long history, and its production dates back over 400 years.
‘Feni’ gets its name from the Sanskrit word phena, meaning froth. This is due to the formation of bubbles that create a light froth when the drink is shaken in a container or poured into a glass. Considered as the state’s heritage drink, Feni is made from the fermented juice of cashew apples or coconuts. Hence, the two varieties of Feni are called Coconut Feni and Cashew Feni. Originally, the local Kunbis, an indigenous community of Goa, created Feni for their personal use. Over time, the beverage became popular and an essential aspect of Goan culture.
The production of Coconut Feni started much earlier than Cashew Feni. Coconut trees were abundant in Goa which facilitated the production of Coconut Feni. Cashew Feni came into the picture only after the Portuguese introduced Cashew in Goa. The liquor has a peculiar flavour and strong smell. The alcohol content in Feni measures between 43% to 45%, lending the drink its formidable strength and distinctive aroma. The fragrance serves as an indicator of a meticulously crafted Feni. The liquid itself is transparent and devoid of colour. Yet, if aged within wooden barrels, it transforms into a golden-brown hue. Feni is also recognised for its medicinal properties.Top of Form
Cashew Feni got its Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2009 owing to its popularity and cultural significance. With this, the Goan Cashew Feni became the first Indian liquor to achieve a GI tag. In 2016, the Goan government declared Feni as the Heritage Spirit of the state.
Why Goa?
Goan Feni is a unique liquor exclusive to the state. The liquor is strongly tied to the culture and history of Goa. It’s one of the most popular drinks in the country and is an integral part of the Goan tradition.
Preparation
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No foreign components are added throughout the traditional production process, which is distinctive. Crushing cashew apples by hand on a high rock with a basin-shaped shape is the first stage in the process of manufacturing Feni. Crushed cashew apple juice drains from the basin into a copper or earthen pot buried well beneath the ground for fermentation. The juice is next distilled by boiling it over a wood fire. Only 4% of the fermented juice turns into alcohol during the many stages of vaporization and distillation that the juice in the pot goes through.
Three separate distillations take place. Urrack, a light and diluted juice produced during the initial stage of the distillation process, is what is obtained. Cazulo, a further distillation of urrak, is produced. Cazulo is a rare substance in the local market with potent euphoric effects. The end product obtained after the distillation is Feni.
Medicinal Applications
- Feni is used to treat mouth ulcers, tooth and gum disorders, and gum difficulties.
- Some people think that serving it with meals also aids in lowering fat.
- Feni is used to treat cold and cough symptoms.
- It cleanses the respiratory system and warms the body.
- Additionally, it aids in the treatment of other stomach-related issues like constipation.
- Feni contains antibacterial qualities that aid in the healing of cuts and wounds.
- It promotes healthy bowel movements and aids in body cleansing.
- Note that Feni should only be consumed under the advice of medical experts.
References
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feni_(liquor)
https://www.ibef.org/giofindia/goa
https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-news-analysis/gi-tagged-feni-goa
https://www.heraldgoa.in/Cafe/Geographical-Indications-of-Goa-through-Philately/208442
