When it comes to whisky, most people tend to think of countries like Scotland or Japan as the go-to destinations for exceptional spirits. However, Australia’s own Starward distillery has been making waves in the industry by consistently producing award-winning whiskies. For the second time in three years, Starward has won the Most Awarded International Distillery Award at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirit Competition (SFWSC). This is no small feat, considering the competition they were up against.
Founded in 2010 in a maintenance hangar at the Essendon Airport in Melbourne, Starward has taken a unique approach to whisky making from the very beginning. Unlike traditional distilleries, Starward’s founder, David Vitale, brings a background in homebrewing to the table. This has influenced Starward’s focus on creating fruit-flavor-forward whiskies that are highly drinkable and accessible to a wide range of palates. Their innovative approach has paid off, evident in their impressive medal haul at the SFWSC.
One of the key factors contributing to Starward’s success is its location. Situated near the lush Yarra Valley wine region, the distillery uses only ingredients sourced within a day’s drive of its facility. This commitment to local sourcing extends to their unique approach to barrel aging. Instead of focusing on heavily charred barrels, Starward embraces using “very wet” wine barrels from nearby wineries. This process results in whiskies that are immediately immersed in a different environment, setting them apart from others in the industry.
According to Vitale, innovation is at the core of Starward’s ethos. He believes that great whisky can be made anywhere in the world as long as you are willing to push the boundaries and think outside the box. This mindset has led Starward to create whiskies that are a true reflection of their innovative spirit. By constantly challenging the status quo and embracing new ideas, Starward has set itself apart as a pioneer in the industry.
With a rapidly expanding global distribution footprint, Starward is poised to make a significant impact on the whisky world. Currently available online in most of the United States and in fourteen states in retail and on the back bar, Starward is making its mark on the industry. As they continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in whisky making, Starward’s future looks brighter than ever.
Starward is a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, innovation, and a willingness to break from tradition come together. With their commitment to quality, unique approach to whisky making, and dedication to pushing the boundaries, Starward is poised to become a powerhouse in the industry. So, if you’re a whisky lover looking for something truly exceptional, look no further than Starward – Australia’s best-kept secret in the world of whisky.