Starward Solera

The Starward Solera is an Australian whisky from the Starward distillery in Melbourne.  A single malt made with 100% Australian barley and matured exclusively in re-coopered and re-sized Apera (an Australian fortified wine, not dissimilar to Spanish sherry) barrels. The name is of course a reference to the solera ageing system, which Starward spins its own take on to age this whisky.

Nose: Prune juice and seedless raisins provide a thick, sherry-forward sweetness that is complemented by rich caramel and toasted almonds. A little marzipan lingers underneath.

Palate: A rich, but well-balanced palate begins with toasted oak and more jammy fruit compote – damsons, black currants and dried figs – before creme brulee, milky coffee and winter spice notes emerge.

Finish: There’s a little sawdust and milk chocolate as the dram concludes.