Starward – Single Barrel Coonawarra (70cl, 57.2%)

An Australian single barrel release from Starward, matured in French oak casks that previously held wine from the Coonawarra region. Only 240 bottles were filled, at 57.2% in 70cl bottles. The spirit went into cask in 2016 and was bottled in 2021, after roughly five years. The wine-seasoned oak lends it pronounced fruit character, and the colour is a dark amber with copper highlights. The nose is tropical and fruity, with sherry and spice. On the palate come candied fruit, red berries and toffee, and the finish is long, fruity and pleasant.