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 project.
“When I first joined Starward, I was really inspired by our red wine barrel maturation and how they influenced those signature fruit-forward notes in our whisky,” Dyer shared. “That’s when I started wondering… what would happen if two ancient arts came together to create something entirely new? Not just in maturation, but from the very beginning of the distillation process? That was the question that kick-started this experimentation, and we never looked back.”
Starward’s Founder, David Vitale, also reflects on the brand’s ethos of creativity, which has driven their efforts since day one. He speaks with pride about this innovative milestone.
“Starward Co-Ferment is a release that’s close to my heart, and I am incredibly proud of the entire team for creating what is a beautifully balanced and complex spirit,” Vitale said. “In addition to making history, it’s bloody delicious, and I can’t wait to see how our fans embrace it in their repertoire.”
A Spirit for All Enthusiasts
The result of years of experimentation is a spirit that whisky lovers, wine enthusiasts, and craft drink appreciators will all adore. Starward Co-Ferment bursts with fruit-forward notes of juicy blackberries, toffee, and quince paste. Its complexity, balanced with a smooth, approachable profile, showcases the synergy of the grape and malt fusion.
And as with any Starward spirit, there are no rules for enjoying it. Whether you choose to savor it neat, over ice, or experiment with creative pairings, the possibilities are endless.
A Limited Release Worth Celebrating
Given the innovative and highly experimental nature of this offering, Starward Co-Ferment will be available in limited quantities. Fans will have their chance to secure a bottle through a ballot process, which opens on Wednesday, 23rd April 2025 via www.starward.com.au. The ballot winners will be drawn on Friday, 16th May, with remaining bottles available for purchase directly from Starward Distillery & Bar in Port Melbourne during trading hours.
This is more than a spirit; it’s a piece of history in the making. With its bold blend of grape and malt, Starward Co-Ferment is the perfect encapsulation of curiosity, craftsmanship, and the taste of discovery. If you’re ready to try something entirely new and distinctively Australian, don’t miss your chance to experience this one-of-a-kind spirit.
Starward Co-Ferment proves that innovation knows no bounds, and for Starward, the exploration of flavor is just beginning.