Australian Whisky Gathers Gold & Accolades

November 6, 2020 — Just a year ago we told you about the Australian whisky brand, Starward that had made its debut in the U.S. with Nova Single Malt in May of 2019 followed by Two-Fold Double Grain in October.  This year both expressions each took home a Gold Medal from the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

For Nova Single Malt, this marks the second year in a row, and the third time that it has taken home a gold medal from this competition.  The first was in 2016 for both the “World’s Best Craft Distilled Whisky” – very impressive – and the “Best Australian Single Malt Whisky”.  Those awards were undoubtedly catalysts for a serious marketing program in United States and distribution has increased exponentially.

Starward, founded in 2007, is located in the southern city of Melbourne which puts them in close proximity to the Yarra Valley winegrowing region.  This is important because Starward’s Nova and Two-Fold whiskies are matured in red wine oak casks that are sometimes still wet with Cabernet, Shiraz or Pinot Noir when they fill them.  The other advantage that comes from their Melbourne location is weather – four- seasons-in-one day kind of weather.  Freezing cold winds blow in from the south while harsh hot winds come from the north.  It can make choosing one’s wardrobe for the day a challenge but it’s perfect for aging whisky.  The oak barrels react quickly to fluctuating temperatures maturing the whisky much faster than in less erratic climates. 

Because of its exposure to big, fruity Australian red wines, Nova Single Malt has a red ochre hue.  As we said in our Two-Fold Double Grain review, there are wine barrel hints on the nose, which we find very appealing.  The initial berry fruit flavors give way to caramel as it moves to a long, spicy, elegant finish.  Nothing beats a delicious, flavor-layered whisky to sip in cold weather and with gift season fast approaching, Starward’s award-winning duo are good solutions for the whisky lover on your list or for anyone that enjoys exploring something new. 

Availability & Pricing

Starward Nova Single Malt (41% AVB) is available nationally for an SRP of $55.00 per 750 ml. bottle.  Two Fold Double Grain (40% ABV) is offered at a suggested retail of $35.00 per 750 ml. bottle. 

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