Starward Australian Single Malt Finished In Lagavulin Barrels

Starward Australian Single Malt Finished In Lagavulin Barrels

A little background

Starward Australian Single Malt Finished in Lagavulin Barrels is a limited-release whisky that combines Australian red wine barrel maturation with an 18-month finish in peated Scotch barrels from Scotland’s Lagavulin Distillery.

Starward is an Australian distillery known for its innovative approach to single malt whisky, utilizing locally sourced ingredients and unique maturation techniques influenced by Melbourne’s variable climate. This expression begins with a mash bill of 100% malted barley, fermented and distilled into a vibrant spirit that is initially matured in Australian red wine barrels. It is then finished for an additional 18 months in barrels sourced directly from Lagavulin Distillery on Islay, one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries renowned for its iconic peated single malt Scotch whisky, which imparts a maritime influence through meticulous craftsmanship.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Dark Gold

Nose

Peat smoke, iodine, honeyed malt, red cherries, apple, honey crisp.

Palate

Smoke, salted caramel, cherry, strawberry, pineapple, peach, vanilla, and clove spice.

Finish

Lingering smoke, iodine, black pepper, ginger, pineapple, oak.

In closing

Starward Australian Single Malt Finished in Lagavulin Barrels stands as a bold yet refined collaboration between Australian red wine–cask maturation and Islay peat influence. It manages to balance fruit-forward vibrancy with coastal smoke and savory depth, creating a whisky that feels both familiar and refreshingly different. Layers of cherry, tropical fruit, salted caramel, and gentle spice unfold against a foundation of maritime peat and oak, leading to a clean, lingering finish of smoke, pepper, and grilled fruit. While its limited availability and premium price may keep it out of easy reach, this release exemplifies Starward’s innovative spirit and skillful blending of cultures, a distinctive and rewarding dram for those seeking a new dimension of peated whisky.
 

NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Starward Whisky. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.

Starward Australian Single Malt Finished In Lagavulin Barrels

Starward Australian Single Malt Finished In Lagavulin Barrels
8.4

Nose

 8.4/10

Palate

 8.4/10

Finish

 8.5/10

Complexity

 8.7/10

Value

 8.0/10

The Good

  • Satisfying finish
  • Unique flavors

The Bad

  • A bit expensive
  • Some might not like the smoke
Official Site

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Matthew Evans

Matthew is the founder and visionary behind Whiskey Consensus. What began as a project to explore the Instagram platform and share a love for whiskey has evolved into so much more. Professionally, Matthew works in digital marketing as a solutions engineer and sales leader, bringing innovative strategies to the table. Outside of work, Matthew is an avid runner, as well as a car and watch enthusiast. He is also deeply committed to giving back to the community through various volunteer responsibilities.