New World Whisky Distillery Starward Single Malt

This Starward (what's in a name?) is the first single malt release from the New World Whisky Distillery, formerly known as the Victoria Valley Distillery. We are just north of Melbourne, Australia, in an old Qantas hangar at the Essedon Airfield. David Vitale, the founder, started production in 2010. Next to bourbon casks, David also used port, wine and PX sherry casks. David decided to re-name his distillery in 2012, right before releasing (in March 2013) his first single malt.

The nose is honeysweet and soft. Very inviting. I immediately get all kinds of orchard fruit: apples, pears and oranges. Hazelnuts? Raisins and a hint of marzipan. Ripe banana and a bit of brown sugar. Fresh and very attractive.

On the palate, it is obvious this is a young animal, but less sharp than you would anticipate. Nice spices such as cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg, before the fruit – a little darker then on the nose with rum raisins and fresh figs – kicks in. Good mouthfeel, by the way. I am impressed.

The finish is rather short and again very sweet, becoming slightly dry at the death.

Like I said, I am impressed. Reminds me somewhat of Dalmore. I am convinced that this one has a nice future ahead and thus the name is well chosen. With a big thank you to my friends Niek & Ilse who visited the distillery and got me this bottle.