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Manufactured · Goa

Feni of Goa

GI Registered Goa Manufactured

Twice-distilled cashew-apple spirit — the first Indian liquor to earn a GI tag.

GI numberGI-120
Registered
Goods class33
ProprietorGoa Cashew Feni Distillers Assn.
StateGoa

The story

Every summer, Goa's hillsides smell of crushed cashew apples fermenting in coimbi pits. The juice is double-distilled in clay or copper pot stills into feni — a 43–45% spirit with a defiant fruity funk that no industrial process can replicate. Registered in 2009, it was India's first GI liquor, and by law real cashew feni can only be made in Goa.

How it is made

  1. Ripe cashew apples are stomped/pressed; juice (neero) is collected.
  2. Natural fermentation for 2–3 days — no added yeast.
  3. First distillation yields urrack (light); second yields feni.
  4. Rested in glass or wooden vats; never charcoal-filtered to death.

◈ How to identify the authentic Feni of Goa

What to check

  • Label states 'Cashew Feni', distilled in Goa, ~43% ABV.
  • Distinct cashew-fruit aroma — polarising and unmistakable.
  • Slight haze is traditional; crystal-clear neutral spirit is not feni.
  • Goa excise + GI certification on genuine bottles.

Where to buy

Authorised producers for this recent registration are not yet listed in our dataset. Check the GI Journal entry for authorised users, and prefer government emporia and cooperatives in Goa.

Registry record

Registry record: GI-120 · Registered 2009 · Proprietor: Goa Cashew Feni Distillers Assn.

Region and market

Goan feni comes in two main types, cashew feni, made from cashew apples, and coconut feni, made from toddy tapped from coconut palms. The cashew version has a strong, fruity aroma and a distinct funk, while the coconut version is cleaner and lighter. Feni has traditionally been sold in bulk to local bars and homes, and the GI, granted to cashew feni, aims to help formalise and protect the product.

Buying guide

Buy from licensed distillers or authorised retailers in Goa, and check that the label states the maker, alcohol strength and batch details. Genuine feni has a strong aroma that reflects its fruit origin, while artificial-tasting spirits sold as feni do not. Because it is an alcoholic product, it is subject to excise rules and cannot be bought by minors. Drink responsibly and check carriage limits before travelling.

Frequently asked questions

What is the GI registration number of Feni of Goa?

This catalogue lists Feni of Goa as GI-120. Registration numbers should be confirmed against the official GI Journal before commercial use.

Where is Feni of Goa made?

Feni of Goa is produced in Goa, in the manufactured category of this catalogue.

Can Feni of Goa legally be made outside Goa?

No. GI protection means only producers within the notified region of Goa may legally sell goods under the name “Feni of Goa”.

How can I tell if my Feni of Goa is authentic?

Check the registered proprietor against the official registry, buy from authorised producer cooperatives, and use the identification checklist on this page.