Feni holds a special place in the hearts of Goans, embodying tradition and nostalgia with every sip. While urrak, its seasonal counterpart, may disappear from the shelves with the arrival of the monsoons, feni remains a constant fixture among Goa’s beverages, enjoyed all year long by locals and visitors.
Since it’s the season of cashews, what better time to talk about a local venture that elevates the standards of feni, placing it on a higher pedestal.
Aani Ek, a pioneering brand from Goa, embodies the essence of innovation and tradition in every bottle.
Founded by a trio of passionate entrepreneurs — Clement Desylva, Karlyle Gomes and Jill D’Souza — Aani Ek is on a mission to redefine the perception of feni, Goa’s iconic spirit, by infusing it with modern flavours and techniques.
At the heart of Aani Ek’s philosophy lies a deep respect for Goan culture and heritage. Drawing inspiration from the region's rich culinary tapestry and abundant natural resources, the brand celebrates the time-honoured tradition of feni while injecting a contemporary twist.
Each variant is meticulously crafted using locally-sourced natural ingredients, ensuring an authentic and premium drinking experience.
Aani Ek's product line-up boasts three distinctive variants, each carefully curated to cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
The lemon infusion introduces a refreshing citrusy note to the original feni, offering a delightful alternative for those seeking a lighter, more vibrant flavour profile.
The chilli variant ignites the senses with its bold and spicy character, appealing to adventurous palates craving a fiery kick, while the honey with cinnamon infusion strikes a harmonious balance between sweetness and warmth, making it a versatile choice for, both, solo enjoyment and mixology experimentation.
Karlyle, one of the partners at Aani ek, has his personal preference for the chilli variant. He says, "I have a penchant for its distinct spicy kick, which also lends itself well to crafting delightful cocktails, a hit at our events."
Additionally, he highlights that the best-selling variant remains the honey and cinnamon infusion. Its familiar flavours resonate well with Indian palates, and its harmonious blend of sweetness and spice allows for enjoyment even when sipped neat, Karlyle shares.
Beyond crafting exceptional spirits, Aani Ek is committed to fostering a sense of community and pride among Goans.
By championing local talent, supporting sustainable practices and engaging with the community, the brand serves as a beacon of innovation and progress in Goa’s burgeoning craft beverage scene.
Aani Ek invites connoisseurs and newcomers to embark on a sensory journey that celebrates the spirit of Goa, one sip at a time.
With a growing presence in select local stores across Goa, Aani Ek invites connoisseurs and newcomers to embark on a sensory journey that celebrates the spirit of Goa, one sip at a time.
Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a creative cocktail ingredient, Aani Ek promises an unforgettable taste experience that pays homage to the vibrant culture and flavours of Goa.