Starward, a whisky-focused distillery based in Melbourne, Australia, has been making waves in the industry by challenging conventional distillation and aging norms. Founded in 2010 by David Vitale, a former homebrewer, Starward set out to create fruit-flavor-forward whiskies that are highly drinkable. Their innovative approach has paid off, as evidenced by their impressive medal haul at the San Francisco World Spirit Competition.
One of the key factors that set Starward apart from other whisky distilleries is their approach to barreling. While most distillers use heavily charred barrels, Starward opts for “very wet” barrels from nearby wineries. By utilizing wine barrels that feature medium to heavy toast on the inside, Starward infuses its whiskies with unique flavors from the start. The immediate immersion into a different environment sets their whiskies apart and adds complexity to the final product.
Embracing Melbourne’s Climate
Starward takes advantage of Melbourne’s unique weather patterns to age their whiskies. The extreme shifts in temperature that occur in a single day cause the liquid to constantly move within the barrel, resulting in a faster aging process. As a result, Starward whiskies are aged for at least three years, with the labels proudly displaying the age in “Melbourne Years.” This innovative approach allows for a variety of flavor profiles and creates an element of surprise with each tasting.
The recent accolades from the San Francisco World Spirit Competition are a testament to Starward’s commitment to quality and innovation. With a growing global distribution footprint, Starward whiskies are becoming more accessible to whisky enthusiasts around the world. In addition to their signature Tow-Fold, Nova, and Solera whiskies, Starward offers several limited edition bottles that showcase the diversity and creativity of their distillery team.
Starward Whisky Distillery’s ongoing success is a result of their unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of the whisky industry. By embracing innovation and experimentation, they have created a unique range of whiskies that appeal to a wide range of palates. With a focus on quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability, Starward is poised to continue making a name for themselves on the global stage. So, the next time you’re looking for a whisky that stands out from the crowd, look no further than Starward from Melbourne, Australia.