Starward – 100 Proof (70cl, 50%)

Starward 100 Proof is an Australian single malt bottled at 50% in a 70cl bottle. It is not chill-filtered and has no added colouring. The whisky matured in casks of American oak, mostly ex-red wine barriques that once held Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon from Barossa Valley wineries. Some casks are charred, while most are fresh and carry the red wine character that has soaked into the staves. The nose offers Madagascan vanilla pods and toasted oak. On the palate come chocolate ganache, cinnamon, quince and Muscadelle raisins, leading to a long, spicy finish.