Few drinks capture the soul of a place quite like feni, Goa’s local and aromatic spirit. On our upcoming culinary tour from Mumbai to Goa with Chef Vikram Vij, you will have the chance to taste this iconic drink firsthand, learning the history and traditions behind every sip.
Feni (also spelled fenny) is a traditional Goan spirit distilled from either cashew apples or coconut sap. Cashew feni is the more widely known and carries a strong fruity aroma, while coconut feni is lighter and earthier. Both are natural, made without added flavours, and typically range from 40–45% alcohol. Its bold character surprises first-timers, but it is unmistakably Goan once experienced.
Distilled feni
A Drink With History
Cashews were introduced to Goa by the Portuguese in the 16th century, originally to prevent soil erosion. Locals quickly discovered how to ferment the juicy fruit and distill it into cashew feni. Coconut feni comes from the long tradition of tapping toddy palms, a practice predating Portuguese arrival. Over time, both feni types became a central part of village celebrations and everyday life.
How Feni Is Made
The process remains artisanal. Ripe cashew apples are collected, washed, and stomped by foot to release the juice. The juice ferments naturally before a two- or three-stage distillation in copper or clay stills. Coconut feni begins with toddy palm sap, which ferments quickly and is distilled with equal care. The final product is pure, potent, and deeply expressive of its source ingredients.
Cashew apples
An earthen clay pot, traditionally called 'Lavni' is used for fermenting Feni. The pot is specifically shaped to facilitate vapor condensation and collection.
On our tour, we will walk visit local, small-scale distilleries called bhattis. We will meet toddy tappers, farmers, and master distillers who share the lore and techniques behind feni. Tastings include both neat feni and innovative local cocktails, often paired with traditional Goan snacks. This immersive experience lets you connect with the drink, the craft, and the culture of Goa in a way few tourists get to.
Feni fermentation process
More Than a Drink
Feni is a symbol of Goa’s tradition, resourcefulness, and tropical bounty. On this tour, tasting feni is not just about the drink itself. It is about stepping into a living tradition, meeting the people who make it, and raising a glass to generations of Goan culture.
Join us on tour: From Mumbai to Goa with Chef Vikram Vij from February 18 - Mar 03, 2027 | Tour details here.
