Starward whiskies

History

Starward’s founder became interested in whisky after getting to know the small distilleries of Tasmania, the island that leads Australian whisky. He decided to create a distillery in Melbourne with an approach of his own: using casks from Australian wineries, very plentiful in the country, instead of the usual bourbon and sherry casks. The distillery began producing at the end of the 2000s in an old hangar at Melbourne airport, and later moved to a larger industrial building. A big drinks group has taken part in its growth as an investor.

House style

Starward’s style is fruity and modern: red fruit, cherry, vanilla, sweet cereal, spice and a touch of chocolate. Red wine casks add colour, fruit and soft tannins. Nova is a malt matured in red wine casks; Two-Fold combines wheat and malted barley, and is lighter and smoother. It uses no peat. It is a style designed to be enjoyed without fuss, with a medium, fruity finish.

Where to start

Starward Two-Fold is the most affordable way in: light, smooth and very versatile, to drink neat, in a highball or in cocktails. Starward Nova is the house malt, with more red fruit and body. Both are good options if you are interested in Australian whisky or wine cask whiskies. If you like them, compare them with Scotch malts with a wine cask, such as Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban.

• Starward Two-FoldBlend · 40% ABV
• Starward NovaSingle malt · 41% ABV