The Indian edition of the globally-acclaimed reality show Shark Tank has given catapulted many home-grown brands to fame. One of those many brands is Goenchi, which is on a mission to preserve Goa’s traditional alcoholic beverage – the beloved feni. For Goans, feni is no less than a cultural symbol that signifies decades and centuries of traditions poured in a bottle. Today, this modern brand is taking the local feni to the global stage, thanks to featuring on Shark Tank India.
Origins of Goenchi
Goenchi’s feni is an embodiment of this very value of resilience. In fact, the brand has a bold tagline – Feni Konnank Bhienam – Feni fears none. The word ‘Goenchi’ literally means ‘of Goa’. Feni has been crafted in the Goa region and parts of Konkan for centuries. Though there are limited written sources, the technique and tradition has been passed down orally from generation to generation. This ancient wisdom has survived many different eras and is still standing strong.
The sibling founders Yash Sawardekar and Tulika Sawardekar had their ‘love at first sight’ moment when they discovered feni at their native place and the journey has been only upwards since then. They dug deeper into Goa’s drinking traditions and met many indigenous distillers keeping this craft alive. The sibling duo realized that it was time for feni to shine in the ‘mainstream’ and so they pushed the gears to make it a reality. In fact, when they appeared on Shark Tank India, the brand secured an investment of INR 2 crore! Now that feels like a personal victory!
Goenchi’s Making
The brand places its bets on authenticity and high-quality and surely delivers on that front. Every Goenchi bottle is traditionally distilled in small batches from a single natural ingredient. This ingredient is either the juice of handpicked cashew apples or the nectar of coconut flowers, which is made to undergo slow and natural fermentation. Here, no yeast or sugar is added and the process is carried out in a 100% copper pot-still.
The fermented product is then distilled in small batches in copper pot-stills to produce the first distillate. In the case of coconut, it is called mollop, whereas in the case of cashew, it is known as urrak. Urrak is also one of the popular alcoholic beverages consumed here. After the first distillate, it is the second distillate that produces feni.
The feni is distilled at the ancestral farm of the sibling founders at Sanvordem, South Goa. Spread across 50,000 square meters, the orchard is dotted with local cashew plantations. They carry out rigorous testing and quality control at each stage to eliminate any error or oversight. This consistency and emphasis on quality produces a stellar, refined feni that’s just as authentic as the people that make it.
Goenchi’s Unique Packaging
Goenchi’s unique label is inspired by currency notes and reflects the local culture and tradition. Oh, and did we mention that its waterproof, making it perfect for chilling before sipping. The design on the label indicates feni prophesizing and appearing like a god-like entity, guiding its local people to fear none. This creative art style is detailed enough to make any connoisseur stop and stare at the bottle art, raising the bar for creative packaging.
The brand offers two variants – coconut feni and cashew feni. The coconut feni boasts of refreshing notes of tender coconut water, green chilli, and sea salt with a sweet, floral finish. It is best served chilled with tonic water or on the rocks. Moving on to the amber-hued cashew variant, it has the classic tropical notes, similar to that of jackfruit, pineapple, and guava cheese with a peppery and fruity punch. It is best served over chilled with lemon-lime soda or on the rocks with a citrusy twist.
Price Of Goenchi Feni
Today, Goenchi is available across more than 300 premium wine stores and retailers in Goa. Priced at INR 1449 for a 750 ml bottle, the brand is receiving nationwide love for preserving and highlighting the 500-year old distillation tradition of Goans. We recommend getting your hands on one of these bottles to get a local, authentic taste of the land of Gomantak!
Summing Up
If you’re someone looking to explore desi liquor and spirits, feni is one of the most easily available and accessible to begin your journey. Found in the state of Goa and some parts of southern Maharashtra like Sindhudurg, this beverage is a living testament to India’s longstanding (and diverse) drinking culture that’s often dismissed or underappreciated. So, when are you trying out this Goan drink?
FAQs
Where Is Goenchi Available?
Currently, it is available only in premium wine stores and alcohol retailers in Goa. So, if you wish to get a sip of Goenchi, pack your bags to Goa!
What Is The ABV Percentage Of Goenchi’s feni?
Goenchi feni is bottled with demineralized water at 40% ABV. This makes it quite potent but responsible drinking will help you in the long run.
Can I Keep Feni In The Fridge?
Feni doesn’t require refrigeration, however, it is best recommended to store it in a cool, dry place in glass bottles. The drink can be served chilled over ice and enjoyed on a hot, sultry afternoon.
