Tag: Starward

Your next exclusive dinner reservation for whiskey lovers is waiting

This July, Society, the iconic 80 Collins restaurant from Chris Lucas, is set to host an extraordinary culinary event that celebrates the essence of modern Australian flavour. In partnership with acclaimed Wagyu producer Westholme and pioneering whisky brand Starward, this exclusive collaboration dinner promises an immersive, produce-led dining experience that honours time, provenance, and exceptional craftsmanship. Taking place in Lillian Brasserie on Thursday, 31 July, the evening will feature a five-course menu meticulously curated by Lucas Restaurants chefs Joachim Lim (Society) and Vincenzo Ursini (Grill Americano). Each dish will hero Westholme Wagyu, renowned for its unparalleled marbling and depth of flavour, and will be paired with speciality whisky cocktails and neat pours from Starward’s award-winning Melbourne-made range. A celebration of seasonality and locality The dinner will showcase the finest seasonal and local ingredients, elevated by the chefs’ expert techniques and attention to detail. Guests can expect dishes that highlight the unique qualities of Westholme Wagyu, such as: Each course will be thoughtfully paired with Starward whisky, including exclusive cocktails crafted by Starward founder Dave Vitale. Highlights include: Westholme and Starward: redefining modern Australian flavour Westholme Wagyu is celebrated by chefs worldwide for its exceptional quality, marbling, and Japanese lineage. Raised on 16 million pristine acres across northern Australia, Westholme’s cattle benefit from a nature-led approach that produces a signature flavour found nowhere else. Starward Whisky, on the other hand, is a trailblazer in the world of Australian spirits. Known for its innovative use of red wine barrels and commitment to sourcing all ingredients within a… Read More

There’s a new whiskey by Starward for you to try

For the first time in Australian history, Starward has unveiled a groundbreaking creation that redefines the boundaries of tradition. Meet Starward Co-Ferment Grape x Malt Australian Spirit, an innovative release that brings together two ancient crafts to create something truly unique. Neither whisky nor wine, this Australian-first spirit is unmistakably Starward, crafted with precision, creativity, and a relentless spirit of exploration. A Fusion of Grape and Malt Starward Co-Ferment begins its life with equal parts of freshly crushed Cabernet Sauvignon grape juice and the distillery’s signature malted barley wash. Based in Port Melbourne, Starward has meticulously sourced every ingredient within a day’s drive of the facility, ensuring a true representation of local terroir. These two elements are co-fermented and distilled before being fully matured in Australian red wine barrels for nearly six years. Some barrels are fresh, while others are charred, adding a layered complexity that has become a hallmark of Starward’s innovative approach. This pioneering process takes the brand’s expertise in red wine barrel maturation to the next level. From the very beginning, Starward has embraced the use of these barrels, showcasing the fruit-forward characteristics that make its spirits distinctive. With the Co-Ferment release, the distillery extends its creativity beyond the confines of whisky to create a spirit that tells a new story altogether. The Inspiration Behind the Craft The genesis of this spirit lies in Starward’s traditions, as well as the inventive minds within its team. Head Distiller and Blender, Carlie Dyer, who comes from a winemaking background, explains the inspiration behind the… Read More

Starward whisky wins an award in Australia

In a remarkable feat, Starward has clinched the title of ‘Most Awarded International Distillery’ at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC), marking a historic moment as the only Australian distillery ever to receive this honour twice. Celebrated as the ‘Olympics’ of the spirits world, the SFWSC is a prestigious event that draws over 5,500 entries from renowned brands across whisky, gin, tequila, and more, each evaluated by a discerning panel of expert judges through blind tastings. Emerging victorious against such formidable competition underscores the exceptional quality and global appeal of Starward’s offerings. “It’s absolutely surreal… There’s no other way to say it,” shares Dave Vitale, Starward’s founder. “Sixteen years ago, I set out to craft a whisky that reflected Melbourne in every sip, and now it’s Melbourne that has allowed our whisky to shine bright on the global stage. We have an abundance of Australian red wine barrels on our doorstep, unpredictable weather (which is maturation’s best friend), and some of the purest water in the world; all the makings for award-winning whisky. For this, I’m so grateful and this is our tribute to the city that is reflected in every drop of Starward.” Starward’s triumph is solidified by an impressive haul of accolades: 8 platinum medals, 13 double gold medals, and 13 gold medals awarded in May 2024. These honors testify to the distillery’s mastery in creating Melbourne-made whiskies that captivate connoisseurs worldwide. Chief Executive Officer Simon Marton echoed this sentiment, noting, “To be recognized as the world’s best not once, but… Read More

Starward Whisky: a fusion of flavours from two worlds

Step inside a universe where the symphony of flavours is as enchanting as a starlit night. Picture nectarine and charred pineapple, dancing in harmony with a touch of coastal peat, culminating in a smouldering dry oak finish. This is not just a whisky; it’s an extraordinary sensory journey, brought to you by Starward Single Malt Australian Whisky Finished in ex-Lagavulin Barrels. Our team had the rare privilege of visiting the Lagavulin distillery in Islay, Scotland, a place where tradition and craft come together to create truly remarkable whiskies. Sam Slaney, Starward’s Production Director, shared that “Our team was incredibly inspired by the experience in Islay. Their landscape and climate are literally worlds away from what we’re used to in our Port Melbourne distillery.” Indeed, the unique character of Lagavulin’s peated whisky, shaped by the wild beauty of Islay, has left an indelible mark on our own creation. Much like how the ever-changing Australian climate affects our maturation process, causing our barrels to contract and expand, soaking up delightful flavours from the wood. Now, for all whisky enthusiasts out there, we have some exciting news! You will have the opportunity to taste this limited release ahead of its official launch. In partnership with select venues, we will be hosting exclusive tasting events across the country. Our team will guide you through the captivating journey of Starward Single Malt Australian Whisky Finished in ex-Lagavulin Barrels. And who knows? There might even be some extra special surprises along the way! Securing your spot early is essential as this… Read More