Founded in 2007 by David Vitale, Starward set out to create a distinctly Australian whisky that’s approachable, versatile, and food-friendly. Located in Port Melbourne, the distillery uses locally sourced barley and barrels from nearby wineries to craft bold, fruit-forward whiskies that reflect Melbourne’s dynamic weather and culinary culture.
🏭 Distillery Highlights
- Location: Port Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Founded: 2007
- Climate Influence: Melbourne’s temperature swings accelerate aging
- Barrel Sourcing: Australian red wine barrels from Shiraz, Cabernet, and Pinot producers
- Philosophy: Whisky for every table – designed to pair with food and cocktails
🥃 Core Whisky Range
| Expression | Type | ABV | Cask Finish | Notes |
| Nova | Single Malt | 41% | Red wine barrels | Fruity, spicy, with red berries and oak |
| Solera | Single Malt | 43% | Apera (Australian sherry) | Rich, nutty, with dried fruit and spice |
| Two-Fold | Double Grain | 40% | Red wine barrels | Soft, creamy, with vanilla and orchard fruit |
| Unexpeated | Single Malt | 48% | Ex-Islay barrels | Smoky, coastal, with tropical fruit |
| Ginger Beer Cask | Single Malt | ~48% | Ginger beer casks | Spicy, sweet, with citrus and ginger |
Sources: Starward Official Site, The Whiskey Wash Overview
🌟 What Makes Starward Unique
- Wine Barrel Aging: Red wine casks impart bold fruit and spice notes
- Melbourne Climate: Rapid maturation due to temperature shifts
- Food-Friendly Style: Designed to pair with meals and cocktails
- Innovation: Regular limited releases and collaborations (e.g., Lagavulin cask finish)
- Global Reach: Available in the US, UK, Europe, and Asia
Starward is redefining Australian whisky with its vibrant, wine-influenced style and urban distilling ethos. Whether you’re sipping Nova neat or mixing Two-Fold into a cocktail, it’s whisky made for modern tastes and everyday enjoyment.