Goa’s centuries-old cashew feni tradition is being reintroduced to modern consumers through the launch of Gracia Século XVI by Kantala Spirits. The premium small-batch spirit is being positioned as a celebration of Goa’s cultural identity, local traditions, and historical craftsmanship. Produced using traditional Goan distillation techniques preserved for more than 450 years, the spirit is being presented as a refined contemporary expression of one of India’s oldest indigenous alcoholic beverages.
The origins of cashew feni date back to the 16th century when Portuguese settlers introduced cashew trees to Goa primarily to prevent soil erosion. Over time, Goan communities began fermenting and distilling the cashew apple into a strong aromatic spirit, with village distilleries known as bhattis becoming central to local traditions and community life. The product name, Gracia Século XVI, meaning “16th Century” in Portuguese, references the historical period during which cashew cultivation and feni production first emerged in Goa.
According to Kantala Spirits, the spirit is crafted using cashew apples sourced from the Pernem region in North Goa and is double-distilled in copper pot stills before being matured in earthenware containers and traditional glass garrafaos. Founder-Director Suzann Homan stated that the creation of the product had been inspired by childhood memories associated with village orchards and local bhattis in Goa. Homan said the idea had originated from “Goa summer holiday memories in a bottle.”
The feni is being bottled in tinted blue glass designed to improve shelf stability while referencing vintage Goan bottle aesthetics. The flavour profile has been described by the company as combining tropical fruit notes, earthy depth, gentle spice, and a smooth finish suitable for both sipping and cocktails.
Through Gracia Século XVI, Kantala Spirits aims to position cashew feni as a cultural ambassador for Goa while introducing the heritage spirit to a wider consumer audience across India.