starward distillery tour

Distillery Tour & Tasting

• Duration: 1 Hours (approx.)
• Location : Port Melbourne, VIC
• Product code: TOUR

Take a step into our lively working distillery to see (and taste) first-hand how we craft our award-winning whisky, right here in Port Melbourne. This is the ‘essential’ Starward tour experience, that covers all need-to-know bases of who we are, what we do and how we make our liquid gold. 

Click here  to purchase a gift card for this experience.

What’s included:  

A behind-the-scenes, guided tour of our distillery from a Starward expert   

Raw product tasting experience

A guided whisky tasting of three award-winning Starward whiskies; Two-Fold, Nova and Fortis

Discount on your next Starward product purchase*

Things to note:

• This tour is for over 18s only.
• Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your booking, late arrivals may not be accommodated.
• You must wear close-toed shoes to keep you safe in our production areas.
• Emitting devices such as mobile phones, car keys and smart watches are considered a safety hazard in our production areas, so we’ll store them in a secure locker while you enjoy your tour.
• Please avoid bringing large bags and laptops that require secure storage.
• Have a gift voucher? Please get in touch at [email protected] and we can book you in!

Companion Card

• Starward Distillery & Bar recognises the Companion Card. Companion Card holders receive a complimentary ticket for their companion on ticket purchase.
• Please bring your Companion Card with you to present to staff before your experience.

Accessibility

• Entry to our venue is step free and paved.
• Our tour pathways are accessible for wheelchairs and mobility aids via lift and wide walkways.
• There is an accessible bathroom on the ground floor of the distillery with an automatic door.
• We have a combination of low and high tables with removable seating. All chairs in the venue have backs.
• Please be sure to get in touch for any specific requirements, we are always happy to help.

Changes, cancellations and refunds

We cannot offer refunds or exchanges for our public tours. You can reschedule your tickets up to 24 hours prior to the event. To do so please contact [email protected] with your booking reference, and our team will get back to you within 1 business day. For any changes within the 24-hour notice period, a fee of 50% of the ticket price per person will be charged. If you're unable to attend your booking, we recommend nominating someone else (must be over 18) to take your place. No notification is required for change of attendee name, simply show tickets on arrival.

Hot weather policy

For the health and safety of our guests and staff, distillery experiences may not be able to operate if the local temperature exceeds 35°C. Should we need to cancel a tour in the event of extreme weather, we will contact all ticket holders to reschedule their booking. If no suitable alternate date can be agreed, a full refund will be processed.

*Exclusions apply. Please chat to our friendly bar team about which bottles are eligible for your 10% discount. 

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Discover the home of Australian whisky at Starward’s new distillery and bar precinct

10 minutes from the heart of Melbourne lies a gem that embodies the spirit of Australian whisky-making: Starward Distillery . After winning 24 Double Gold medals in 2 years, Starward goes even bigger with its recent unveiling of a brand-new distillery tour and bar experience, whisky enthusiasts and novices alike are in for an immersive journey into the world of premium Australian whisky, that is unashamedly modern.

What sets Starward apart is its unique approach to whisky production, which harnesses the rich flavours of Australian wine country, local barley and a belief that whisky is for everyone. It’s also set apart thanks to being the only whisky in Australia that has a bar, bottling, distilling and ageing on site. Starward’s new distillery tour offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into creating their signature spirit. Visitors are invited on a guided exploration through the distillery’s state-of-the-art facilities, where every step of the whisky-making process is unveiled, from the sourcing of locally grown grains to the meticulous aging in Australian wine barrels, and yes, you get to taste every step of the way.

Starward Distillery visitors can also unwind and savour the fruits of Starward’s labor at the chic onsite bar, where a curated selection of their finest whiskies awaits. From smooth single malts to bold expressions aged in red wine barrels, plus cocktails and bar snacks (cheese pairs VERY well with whisky!), there’s something to tantalise every palate. Knowledgeable bartenders are on hand to provide insights into the tasting notes and nuances of each whisky, ensuring a memorable and personalised experience for every guest. The space is made for sharing and relaxing, something Starward founder, David Vitale, wanted to champion by creating a whisky that could be taken out of the special occasion cabinet and be put into the sharing cabinet.

Great whiskies talk about the place they’re made, and so does the food at Starward! For the first time, Starward will also offer a carefully curated food menu, inspired by Melbourne’s vibrant culinary scene and led by Head Chef Drew Traynor (ex Eau De Vie). Each dish is designed to work in harmony with the whisky, and feautures small plates and sharing dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, with all producers located within a day’s drive of the distillery. The house baked spent barley bread with Pure Peninsula honey and whisky butter is a carb that will live rent free in your mind for days to come. We also recommend finishing the meal with the Affogato, which is paired with house Starward whisky and wattle seed ice-cream and ginger beer shortbread.

Tailored for both the seasoned whisky connoisseur as well as those eager to learn more, the new Starward Distillery and Bar introduces a world of seasonal and signature cocktails, showcasing the versatility of Starward whisky. From classic whisky sours to boilermaker pairings, each drink is crafted to highlight the nuanced flavours of Starward’s fruit forward, Melbourne- made whisky. Guests will also be able to choose from a curated selection of local wines and beers, celebrating the best of Victorian producers and Starward collaborators.

If that’s not enough, in an exciting first for Starward, a ‘Fill Your Own Bottle’ experience is the newest addition to the distillery’s repertoire, allowing whisky lovers to bottle their own Starward whisky under the guidance of a resident Starward expert. Pour straight from the barrel of your choosing and customise your own label to take home for yourself, as a gift for someone worthy.

Starward’s new distillery tour and bar epitomise the spirit of innovation and hospitality that defines the Australian whisky scene. It’s not just a journey through the production process; it’s an invitation to discover the soul of Australian whisky and create lasting memories with every sip.

by Danielle Kirk

Updated: 17/04/2024

Tags: Australian whiskey , australian whisky , melbourne , port melbourne , Starward , Starward whiskey , starward whisky

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Starward Whisky’s Port Melbourne Distillery Just Got A Major Glow Up

Distilleries aren’t traditionally at the top of the list when you’re looking to take your significant other out for a pleasant evening. But that was before the arrival of the newly revitalised Starward Distillery & Bar.

Located just a stone’s throw away from Melbourne CBD, this revamped space, brought to life by the architects at Studio Y, blends a strikingly modern industrial aesthetic — copper stills and all — with a welcoming ambience.

RELATED: The 15 Best Australian Whiskies For Your Collection In 2024

For the very first time, Starward has unveiled an impressive food menu curated by chef Drew Traynor (formerly of Melbourne institution Eau de Vie ). Crafted using locally sourced ingredients from producers who reside within a day’s drive from the distillery; and tailormade to complement Staward’s whisky, there’s plenty to explore on this “flavour-filled journey.”

For those of you seeking to be schooled in all things whisky, try The Distillery Chef’s Selection. A dining experience wherein a Starward expert guides you through a three-course sip and grazing menu; each dish highlights a specific stage of the whisky-making process. Guests can also anticipate a whisky cocktail tailored to what’s on their plate.

Other similarly immersive experiences available at the new Starward Distillery & Bar include the Distillery Tour & Tasting package; the Whisky Masterclass & Barrel Tasting package; plus the headlining ‘Fill Your Own Bottle’ experience. As the name suggests, the latter allows guests to bottle their very own unique expression of Starward whisky from a barrel of their choosing — under the careful guidance of a resident expert (who will also provide you with a customised label and take-home gift box).

RELATED: The Newly-Crowned World’s Best Single Malt Whisky Isn’t (Gasp) Scotch

“Whether they’re sipping with friends, embarking on a tour, enjoying a cheese and whisky pairing with colleagues, or expanding their whisky knowledge with our masterclass, the options for enjoyment are endless.”

Karakostas continued: “Regardless of where you sit on the whisky-loving scale, our expert team can guide you on a memorable, tailored whisky experience.”

Port Melbourne’s Starward Distillery & Bar officially (re)opens its doors this week (April 11th, 2024) — book a table or perhaps a tour reservation below.

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Home » Drinks » Whisky » New World Whisky Distillery Tour

New World Whisky Distillery Tour

There is a sense of timeless serenity upon entering Starward’s New World Whisky Distillery in Victoria. The eye is drawn to 120,000 litres of spirits in casks quietly ageing beside a shiny new bar to one side. To the left, stills and fermenters are where the magic happens.

It is late afternoon and David Vitale, CEO of New World Whisky greets us at the bar for the start of our Starward whisky journey.

This is Barrel No 1 from 9 th March 2010, he explains as he draws the prized whisky using a spirit thief.

This is history at its finest and a privilege to be offered a taste straight from the 200 litre sherry cask barrel. A medley of ripe fruit and oak plays on the nose and bursts of fruit with vanilla, toffee and crème brûlée linger on the palate.

58%ABV. First Starward whisky barrel. Indeed, this is starting at the beginning.

Established in 2004, New World Whisky Distillery has worked with the premise that whisky doesn’t need time in wood to taste good and Starward has set out to challenge the baseline truth from around the world that age matters.

“We started the distillery with a really clear focus of what Starward meant and what it represents from the drinker’s perspective, approachability, affordable price point and consistent product from batch to batch,” David Vitale explains.

Starward has achieved its success and popularity by producing younger whisky which raises questions about how the spirit reaches a level of maturation so quickly.

According to Vitale, Melbourne is a unique place to make whisky, from cold and windy days that are Scottish in nature to warm sunny days. The heat transfer through the barrels makes a big difference in terms of the maturation and wood policy. By focusing on controlling the barley, the distillation and fermentation processes, it allows for a shorter maturation period.

It starts with inputs, how they deal with barley strains , fermentation and distillation. The barley strains are particularly selected to give richness and malty flavour. Brewing barley gives an oily, rich flavour and mouth coating but requires more time in wood to clean up the flavours and react with the environment and temperature to have that reactive maturation. The focus is skewed heavily on controlling the barley, the fermentation and the distillation.

Hybrid yeast is used, a combination of brewing and distilling yeast. The benefit is that one is doing the heavy lifting in the alcohol development while the distilling yeast and the brewing yeast are providing the flavours. As the yeast is about producing flavour this reduces the time needed in the barrel. The fermentation process brings out more of the fruit characteristics.

The next key factor is fermentation . Unlike Lark Distillery , Starward have a short fermentation period of 72 hours. Any longer and other flavours from lactobacillus develop which are uncontrolled as they rely on the bacteria on the barley and the environment to create those flavours. To get consistency from batch to batch, they need to remove anything that is not controlled from that process. The result is finding flavour profiles they like and want from the yeast profile that only takes three days to ferment.

The four fermentation tanks have a capacity of 5000 litres which are filled to 3800 litres to produce 420 litres of new make spirit. This represents a production of 150 cases a day, 7 days a week. With an upgrade soon to happen, capacity will soon be increased.

The next factor is related to cuts . Starward aim to narrow in on the cuts to produce a spirit that doesn’t need that much time in wood as, for example, a feint-driven spirit from a lowland distillery designed to develop its flavours after ten or twelve years.

“The new make spirit that behaves more like an eau de vie than a new make spirit from Scotland or moonshine out of Kentucky,” Vitale explains.

Scotch whisky distilleries take the cut from 63.5% up to 70% straight from the heart into the barrel while Starward cuts theirs down to 55% ABV. The reasons are twofold, it makes a mellower whisky and every bottle of Starward has more of the barrel in at than say an equivalent whisky at 43%. So the water has had time – two and a half years – to integrate into the barrel, not three weeks from adding the water and into the bottle therefore creating a more integrated product adding that water earlier.

With a new pot to go on the spirit still and a new still pair being made by Peter Bailey from Tasmania, stillmaker for Lark Distillery , Sullivans Cove and Archie Rose , capacity will be significantly increased.

There are 120,000 litres resting in mainly apera casks, some wine casks and a small percentage of port casks in sizes of 200, 100 and 50 litres. Most of the 100’s are from Yalumba and Barossa wineries with Shiraz being the most prominent but there are also Chardonnay and some sparkling pinot. The Shiraz and Chardonnay casks are mainly American oak with the wine flavours being integrated during the maturation process.

New World Projects

Delivering consistency of product can have a drawback and to provide the distillery team with challenges the New World Projects was born.

New World Projects are experimental whiskies and and began one month after production with an emphasis on wood policy. We’ve seen the likes of the ginger finish, apera finish and wine casks. Experimentation with wood policy happens either pre-filling or post-maturation eg they take a liquid from solera and finish it in ginger beer casks. The spirits certainly challenge what people’s idea of what a whisky is and creates a buzz around it. Another advantage of NWP is that it does not dilute what the brand represents.

With Australian wine makers using different fruit in a different climate, apera casks deliver a very different fruit profile to their Spanish counterparts. They bring out fresh fruit flavours alongside dried fruit. This occurs partly due to the fermentation but also due to its time in barrel.

Experimentation in New Projects has led to a second expression which we reviewed earlier, Starward Wine Cask Edition 1 matured exclusively in Australian red wine barrels.

The New World Whisky Distillery has shown that age does not matter. Much like Kavalan whisky from Taiwan, whiskies can be produced that are both full on flavour and approachable in a short time frame. For those looking at what else can be achieved, New World Projects deliver new flavours through wood policies and maturation. In short, the distillery has succeeded in delivering Australian whisky in Australian wine barrels, not a reinterpretation of Scottish whisky.

New World Whisky Distillery Bar

A new addition to the New World Whisky Distillery is an inviting bar with an impressive design.

The bar top has been crafted using staves from a 75 year old 30,000 litre French oak brandy barrel and as such provides a link to the whisky barrels that surround the lounges and tables. The lights are fitted onto the bands of the barrel giving a good indication of its size.

The bar is open Friday and Saturday nights and focuses on the spirits produced at the distillery including a seasonal New World Projects Gin . Cocktails are also available at the bar highlighting the spirits produced.

New World Whisky Distillery is located in Essendon Fields in Victoria within close proximity to Tullamarine Airport. Distillery tours operate on Friday and Saturday afternoons for one hour and include two tastings for $10.

With much gratitude to David Vitale and Paul Slater for their time.

For more distilleries, visit the Australian Distillery Directory .

New World Whisky Distillery 181 Larkin Street, Essendon Fields VIC 3041 Phone:(03) 9005 4420 newworldwhisky.com.au

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About the author.

Corinne Mossati

Corinne Mossati is a drinks writer, author of GROW YOUR OWN COCKTAIL GARDEN, SHRUBS & BOTANICAL SODAS and founder/editor of Gourmantic, Cocktails & Bars and The Gourmantic Garden. She has been writing extensively about spirits, cocktails, bars and cocktail gardening in more recent years. She is a spirits and cocktail competition judge, Icons of Whisky Australia nominee, contributor to Diageo Bar Academy, cocktail developer and is named in Australian Bartender Magazine's Top 100 Most Influential List. Her cocktail garden was featured on ABC TV’s Gardening Australia and has won several awards. She is a contributor to Real World Gardener radio program and is featured in several publications including Pip Magazine, Organic Gardener, Australian Bartender and Breathe (UK). Read the full bio here .

19 Comments

[…] Wine Cask Edition 1 is the second expression in the Starward range from New World Whisky Distillery in Melbourne. The single malt is matured exclusively in Australian red wine barrels and bottled at […]

[…] diners the opportunity to mingle with the producers, Michelle Morgan of Zokoko and David Vitale of Starward Whisky, learn about their craft and taste a selection of fine chocolates and single […]

[…] is a new Australian whisky from New World Whisky Distillery in Victoria made from 100% malted barley from Ballarat, a spirit that has the characteristic of […]

[…] whisky was represented by Starward who featured their newly released Starward Wine Cask Edition 1 which we reviewed earlier, and Nant […]

[…] Yoichi 15 YO. Taiwan is represented with Kavalan Whisky while Australia features Lark Port Cask, Starward Whisky and Sullivans Cove American […]

[…] stocks 29 Australian whisky expressions on the back bar with another six on their way. You can find Starward Whisky from Melbourne, The Big Black Cock which we featured in our Top 10 Australian Craft Spirits from Mt […]

[…] Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned to Patron Silver Bees Nees and finishing with The Valentino made with Starward whisky and a zingy Ramos Gin […]

[…] taste with Yamazaki, Hakushu and Hibiki. Australia’s entry was weaker in comparison with only Starward Whisky and Hellyers Road. The latter had unfortunately ran out of stock before the opportunity to taste […]

[…] World Whiskies which include Lark Distillery, Sullivans Cove, Hellyers Road Distillery, Smiths and Starward as well as Hibiki and Hakushu Japanese whiskies just to name a few. You’ll find over 200 single […]

[…] third batch for Starward whisky is now made using the Solera system and while the spirit has not attained consistency from batch to […]

[…] of the Australasian Whisky Awards in 2013, Starward has received a lot of exposure of late yet every tasting has revealed a different character to the […]

[…] Starward whisky from Victoria was the winner of the first prize in the 2013 Australasian Whisky Awards single malt category. The whisky is aged in 100% Apera (Australian sherry) casks, and the interaction with the wood gives the young whisky (2.5 yo) its deep colour and flavour. The flavour profile is fruity with banana, apples, pears and toffee with a creamy mouthfeel. […]

[…] the Starward / New World Whisky Distillery, visitors were in for a treat with David Vitale, CEO Starward and Paul Slater behind the stand. It […]

[…] for its whisky, New World Whisky Distillery in Melbourne has released their first gin, a small batch seasonal release called New World Projects […]

[…] Starting with Starward, David Vitale presented both expressions, the original Starward Apera Cask and the newly released Starward Wine Cask. He highlighted the effects of distillation and maturation and the impact Melbourne’s weather plays on the faster maturation of whisky. You can read our in-depth article on New World Whisky Distillery. […]

[…] the New World Whisky Distillery was the latest New World Projects small batch seasonal gin, Korenwijn (43.5% ABV). Made from the […]

[…] Lowlands, Islay, Scottish Islands and Speyside as well as new world whiskies from Australia (Starward, Belgrove, Sullivans Cove) and Japan along with a list of popular American whiskies.  You’ll […]

[…] Cobbler is the ideal choice. Made with red grapes muddled with Starward Wine Cask single malt from New World Whisky Distillery in Australia, mandarin peel infused fino sherry, lemon and sugar, the cocktail delivers on flavour. […]

[…] late 2016, Starward /New World Distillery relocated to Port Melbourne which means it has a shiny new bar where you can enjoy whisky […]

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Starward Distillery

• Port Melbourne

Time Out says

Starward whisky has become a Melbourne mainstay, and we should count ourselves lucky for it

Starward Whisky has become a local hero over the last 15 years, finding its humble and loving home in many bar shelves and bar carts – in bars, pubs, restaurants and many homes across the country.

Starward is an obvious bartender favourite, popping up on many curated cocktail lists in some of the best bars going around, but in Melbourne, you can go straight to the source. The Starward distillery is located in an airy and open warehouse space in Port Melbourne, within close proximity to the Melbourne CBD. The distillery offers many tours, masterclasses and tastings, offering a whisky experience for every type of whisky drinker. Visit the distillery to learn the ins and outs of Starward's secrets, such as why they use red wine barrels to mature the whisky and why Melbourne's climate is so crucial to the development of the final product. 

The distillery also houses a bar which offers up seasonal cocktails and snacks that makes a perfect pit stop for afternoon drinking. You can also sample 15ml or 30ml pours of Starward's range of whiskies, or go for a tasting flight, which is an efficient way to get acquainted with the golden liquor. Snack on cheese or charcuterie boards, and if you're in for a big afternoon, line your stomach with the three-cheese toastie served with mustard and spicy pickles. 

This year, Starward is celebrating its 15th anniversary with the release of the limited edition Vitalis. Named after Starward's founder, David Vitale, Vitalis is a spirited concoction that encapsulates the brand in a bottle. The brand has always had a strong focus on creating whisky that pairs easily with food, and the limited-edition release is said to have notes of chocolate-coated pineapples, coffee beans and tropical fruits. 

A visit to the Starward distillery should be on every Melburnian's to-do list, and is also a great spot to take out-of-towners. Cheers to 15 years Starward – we are grateful to share our great city with you. 

Looking for other iconic Melbourne drinking spots? Check out the best rooftop bars here. 

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First Look: Starward Whisky’s Port Melbourne Distillery Gets a Glam Refresh

When you enter Starward’s newly refurbished bar, don’t expect chesterfields and tweed-jacket types swilling whisky by a fireplace.

“You wouldn’t think you’re in a whisky distillery,” Patty Karakostas, Starward’s hospitality and experience manager, tells Broadsheet . “It’s modern, it’s bold, it’s colourful, which goes completely against the grain of what you think a whisky distillery should be, and that’s the point.”

The 120-seat venue inside the Port Melbourne distillery has been revamped with a new bar, kitchen and food offering. Experienced firm Studio Y is behind the fit-out, and it’s smartly partitioned the large warehouse into distinct sleek and cosy dining areas.

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“It’s about bringing whisky back to the dinner table,” says Karakostas. “Every item on the menu has whisky in it, and that connection with Melbourne’s food culture has always been an important part of our story.”

Head chef Drew Traynor (ex- Eau De Vie ) has designed a menu featuring small plates, snacks and grazing boards with ingredients sourced – as with grains used to make Starward’s whiskies – from within a day’s drive of the distillery.

To start, there’s house-baked spent barley bread, which uses recycled grains from the whisky-making process. It’s a clever example of Traynor’s approach, and seriously moreish with Pure Peninsula honey and whisky butter.

More substantial offerings include smoked trout, quinoa and a sweet potato croquette lifted with a whisky and mayo sauce. Fried chicken gets similar treatment accompanied by a Starward Two-Fold barbeque sauce and blue cheese ranch dip.

Look out for the new Distillery Chef’s Experience, where an expert guides you through a three-course sip and grazing menu with each course paired to a whisky cocktail.

Starward has long fought to become Australia’s mixing whisky, and you can see how it’s going with seasonal cocktails – the Pumpkin Latte Milk Punch is the current go-to – and a tidy list of classics. A substantial back catalogue of whiskies is also on pour alongside an exclusively Victorian wine and beer list.

Seasoned whisky lovers should head straight to the “Fill Your Own Bottle” offering. You can sample two different Starward whiskies straight from the cask – the current white wine cask matured option is our pick – then customise your own label and take-home gift box for home sipping or gifting.

Starward’s strength has long been its forward-thinking approach and broad appeal, and true to form, there’s something for everyone here. Distillery tours, masterclasses, and events like the upcoming Whisky & Dreams festival will also be held in the space year-round.

Starward Distillery & Bar 50 Bertie Street, Port Melbourne (03) 9005 4420

Hours: Thurs 3pm–9pm Fri & Sat 12pm–10pm Sun 12pm–7pm

starward.com.au

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• Distilleries

Starward distillery

How does starward whisky taste, wine cask maturation.

Starward founded in 2007 in the state of Victoria by David Vitale is a rising star in the international whisky sky. The progressive Australian New World whisky distillery relies on aging in Australian wine barrels and recommends pairing with numerous dishes. The progressive young distillery is a child of the cultural metropolis Melbourne, which is considered the culinary Mecca of the Australian continent. So it is no coincidence that Starward likes to present its whisky in pairings with dishes and as a cocktail variant. The distillery exudes a spirit of optimism and appeals to a new generation of whisky enthusiasts with its unconventional design. It is not for nothing that Starward likes to call itself New World Whisky.

Maturing in Australian red wine barrels brings many fruity and berry notes into the Starward whiskies. The barrels made from Australian oak also add spicy accents. In addition, there are sweet aromas of caramel, as well as light nutty tones and toasted notes.

Starward is an experimental whisky producer. When it comes to the choice of grain, the distillery breaks traditional conventions with it’s whiskies. With the Starward Two-Fold, for example, the whisky is distilled from wheat and barley malt. The distillery calls this whisky “Double Grain”. Starward uses classic copper pot stills for distillation with a 1,800 liters (wash still) and 600 liters (spirit still).

The maturation of Starward whisky also sets it apart as this takes place in a variety of Australian Wine Casks. Whisky is usually stored in freshly charred oak barrels (Bourbon) or former Bourbon barrels (Scotch). It is true that a finish, i.e. a short subsequent ripening shortly before bottling, is quite common in wine barrels. But so far, no one else has gone so radically across the entire product portfolio. Incidentally, the barrels come from some of Australia’s leading wine regions, such as the Barossa Valley and the Yarra Valley, these casks have previously contained Shiraz, Cabernet, Pinot and Apera, the Australian Sherry

, a strong wine. Due to the highly variable climate of Melbourne, the barrels mature faster than their relatives in Scotland or Ireland with a higher angels’ share the whisky is loaded with aromas from an early age.

Apera is the Australian version of sherry, but due to the protected designation of origin, it cannot be called that.

Thanks to a substantial injection of funds from Diageo’s financing project “Distill Ventures”, Starward was able to expand massively in 2015 and raise its production capacity to 250,000 liters per year.

In 2014, the Australian Sullivan Cove Distillery was named the world’s best single malt whisky at the World Whiskies Arwards. Since then, at the latest, Australia has been on the radar of the international whisky community. Australia, and Tasmania in the lead, is considered by many experts to be “the new Japan” of the whisky world. It is alluding to the rapid rise of theJapanese whiskiesa luxury good and the associated enormous rise in the price of Japanese whiskies. Starward was founded by David Vitale in 2008 long before the rush. In 2015, Starward received a substantial financial injection from the spirits company Diageo. The company selected Starward in its Distilled Ventures program and made large investments in expanding the distillery. As a result, the distillery was able to move to new buildings in Port Melbourne in 2016. The production capacity was increased to around 250,000 liters per year. ThereAustralian whiskyHas only arrived sporadically in the European market so far, Starward has taken a pioneering role here. We are curious to see what else will come to us from the other end of the world and which stars the Melbourne residents have in store for us.

Starward factsheet

Can i tour starward.

Yes Starward distillery is tourable. On Trip Advisor the distillery has been rated as excellent by 0 of tours to date. This gives Starward an overall rating of

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Australian Innovation Meets Scottish Tradition: Meet The Starward X Lagavulin Whisky Collaboration

I n a groundbreaking fusion of Australian innovation and Scottish tradition, Starward Distillery has unveiled a tantalizing creation that promises to captivate the palates of whisky aficionados worldwide. This audacious venture, aptly named "Starward X Lagavulin," represents a marriage of two distinct whisky cultures, blending the renowned craftsmanship of Lagavulin, an esteemed Islay distillery, with Starward's adventurous spirit and commitment to pushing the boundaries of flavor.

At the heart of this collaboration lies Starward's unwavering dedication to experimentation, evident in their bold decision to finish their signature Australian single malt in casks previously cradling peated Islay whisky. The result? A symphony of flavors that marries the tropical essence of Starward's whisky with the robust, smoky character of Lagavulin's renowned peat.

Picture this: the warm, sun-kissed shores of Australia meeting the rugged, windswept coastline of Islay in a harmonious fusion of terroirs and traditions. Starward's whisky, already distinguished by its maturation in red wine casks, undergoes a transformative journey as it nestles in the depths of Lagavulin casks for a final 18 months. During this period, the whisky undergoes a metamorphosis, absorbing the essence of its newfound surroundings and emerging with a complex interplay of flavors.

Official tasting notes tantalize the senses, inviting whisky enthusiasts on a sensory journey. The nose is greeted by the delicate aroma of nectarine, intertwined with a subtle whisper of peat and the enticing sweetness of pineapple, with a faint hint of iodine lingering in the background. On the palate, the experience unfolds with tropical exuberance, as notes of chargrilled pineapple dance alongside the warmth of black tea, accented by a touch of salt that evokes the briny air of Islay's coastline. The journey culminates in a lingering finish, where the smoldering embrace of drying ash gives way to a crescendo of tropical fruits, elegantly balanced by the gentle embrace of oak.

Limited to a mere 2,000 bottles, each meticulously crafted expression of Starward X Lagavulin is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that defines both distilleries. Bottled at a robust 48% ABV and presented without chill-filtering, this whisky embodies the raw, unadulterated essence of its origins.

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The genesis of this remarkable collaboration traces back to Starward's ambitious vision and their relentless pursuit of excellence. Inspired by the distinctively delicious character of Lagavulin, Starward's founder, David Vitale, sought to create a whisky that seamlessly melded Australian curiosity with Scottish tradition. With the support of Diageo's Distill Ventures arm, which invested in Starward in 2015, this vision became a reality, culminating in a transcendent whisky that pays homage to both its Australian roots and Scottish heritage.

For the fortunate few who secure a coveted bottle of Starward X Lagavulin, each sip is a testament to the shared passion and dedication of two distilleries united by a common pursuit of perfection. As the whisky makes its debut in specialist whisky shops in the Netherlands, whisky connoisseurs eagerly anticipate the opportunity to embark on a sensory odyssey unlike any other. With its bold flavors and rich narrative, Starward X Lagavulin stands as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration, inviting enthusiasts to raise a glass and toast to the boundless possibilities of whisky exploration.

About Starward Distillery

Starward Distillery is a prominent Australian whisky producer based in Melbourne, Victoria. Established in 2007, Starward has quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to whisky-making and its commitment to quality craftsmanship. The distillery is situated in the heart of Melbourne's urban landscape, reflecting its modern and cosmopolitan ethos.

One of the hallmarks of Starward whisky is its unique maturation process, which takes advantage of Melbourne's dynamic climate. Unlike traditional whisky-producing regions, Melbourne experiences significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year, with hot summers and cool winters. This climate accelerates the aging process, allowing Starward whiskies to develop rich and complex flavors in a relatively short period.

Starward whiskies are crafted using locally sourced Australian barley and yeast, along with water from Victoria's pristine natural springs. The distillery's flagship expression, Starward Nova, is aged in Australian red wine barrels, which impart fruity and spicy notes to the whisky. Starward also offers a range of other expressions, including single malts, cask strength releases, and limited-edition bottlings, each showcasing the distillery's innovative spirit and dedication to quality.

In addition to its core range, Starward frequently collaborates with local wineries, breweries, and distilleries to produce unique and experimental whiskies. These collaborations highlight the diversity and creativity of Australia's craft beverage scene, while also pushing the boundaries of traditional whisky-making.

Starward Distillery's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility is evident in its operations, with initiatives such as water recycling and energy efficiency measures. The distillery's modern facilities and visitor center welcome guests to experience the whisky-making process firsthand through guided tours and tastings, offering insight into the craftsmanship and innovation behind Starward whiskies.

With its distinctive approach to whisky-making, commitment to quality, and focus on innovation, Starward Distillery has earned a reputation as one of Australia's leading whisky producers. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, Starward whiskies offer a taste of Melbourne's vibrant and dynamic spirit, making them a favorite among whisky enthusiasts worldwide.

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Kristall distillery - visit - Moscow Forum

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Kristall distillery - visit

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Can you please tell me if it is still possible to visit KRISTALL distillery? How to book this tour - with some degustation?

Thank you for quick answer!

Yes, according to its site, you can visit the distillery. But to order a tour or find details you need to call them, I am not sure they speak English though. http://www.kristall.ru/page.php?P=33 (in Russian)

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