New World Whisky Starward

One of the Australian whiskies on offer during the recent Whisky Live 2013 that really captivated leading me to purchase a bottle straightaway. It is surprising to learn that the New World Whisky distillery producing this single label: Starward is only 3 years old and virtually distilled in my "own backyard" (inner Melbourne, Australia). I learnt from the conversation with their representative during Whisky Live that their philosophy is to produce an Australian malt whisky with an emphasis on consistency, something perceived to be lacking in the young Australian whisky industry. Anyway, on to the tasting, this one from the bottle I got after the event.

Glass: Glencairn

Nose: Fresh burst of tropical fruit - think green/yellowing bananas, apple, bubblegum, sweet and candy-like.

Body: Medium weighted, richly flavoured, ultra smooth with a silky-oiliness to it. Hardly any alcohol heat.

Palate: Clean like the nose, another wave of tropical fruit crashing onto the tongue, sweet and candy like with a bubblegum-estery note. Just a hint of oak. Unique and refreshing - dangerously drinkable.

Finish: Crisp and clean, gently warming. Sweet iced-tea like, then a coconut fade that lingers.

Patriotism aside, I can only see great things in store for this fledgeling distillery if they can consistently produce whisky of such calibre. As for me, I believe another bottle or three is scheduled for the near future. Good on ya, mate!