Starward Octave Barrels (Yalumba The Octavious)

Starward is the leading Australian whisky producer and distributor. They recently gained significant recognition by winning eight double golds at the San Francisco Spirits Competition and were named the world's best distillery in 2022. They achieved similar remarkable success in the 2023 competition. However, in my experience, the four I've sampled so far have been just average, with the exclusive cognac cask falling between good and excellent (see ongoing scores below). I've also taken issue with their practice of experimenting with various barrels and then marketing them as special and exclusive. Starward was established in 2007. Yet, I can think of five core range bottlings and about 20 total releases from their experimental and small batch series off the top of my head. That's rather astonishing for a distillery less than 20 years old and should raise some questions. As a relatively local (east coast Australia to my west coast Australia) and reasonably priced range, I am keen to give them time and an open mind. I truly want them to impress me. The last one I tried, the Cognac, earned Starward needed points in my assessment. I've lined up five more (possibly a few more if I can get them). Let's see what happens. In partnership with the renowned Australian winery Yalumba, the Octave Barrels release has been matured in the world's only red wine aged in 100-liter octave-sized barrels (Yalumba is the sole winery in the southern hemisphere to handcraft barrels in their own onsite cooperage). These freshly emptied casks were filled in 2018 and matured until 2021, when they were bottled at 48% ABV with an undisclosed release quantity. Nose: Warm and comforting. A dry cigar box and aged oak impart an earthiness to honey, caramelized orange peel, and stewed fruit. The faintest hint of fermented banana also combines with a light toffee to create a smooth profile. Palate: Tingly and somewhat cloying, contrary to the nose's suggestion. Rich sticky brown sugar caramel adds depth; generous amounts of dry red wine and fresh red chili add intrigue; and red fruit and apples provide some freshness. The chili is a bit overpowering, slightly upsetting the balance. Finish: Medium-long. A delightful subtle perfume note, warm vanilla, some oak spice, and a minced pie-like character. Alright Starward, we're making progress! I enjoy this; the only truly harsh element is the chili heat on the mid-palate. The nose, despite sounding musty and acrid in much of my description, was quite captivating. I haven't encountered fermented banana since I was in the Ugandan jungle, where I was invited to try banana beer. The "beer" was made in a pit in the ground by combining bananas with muddy water and covering it with large banana leaves, then leaving it in the sun. Disgusting, but like a train wreck, I couldn't look away. The aroma here was not as repulsive, but it held my attention. The finish, however, the gentle lift of a perfume was simply wonderful. Quite complex and a great start to this Australian exploration. Starward ongoing scores: Fortis: 3.25/5 Whisky Club Exclusive, Maple Cask: 2/5 Whisky Club Exclusive, Cognac Cask: 3.5/5 Projects, Octave Barrels: 3.75/5 Small Batch, Hungarian Oak: 3/5

Subtly sweet with malt and grape essence, this is nevertheless balanced by the oak cask, which imparts a dry quality. The nose is delicate and fruity, while the initial taste is robust and punchy. We especially appreciate the Shiraz influence, as it offers a classic approach and is less sweet than if a sherry cask had been used. The flavor remains pleasing throughout the experience, culminating in a gentle fading after several minutes. A true pleasure to savor!

Light copper color, suggesting a young spirit. Aroma: raisins, apples, peach, plums, menthol, sweet caramel goodness, toasted oak. Palate: thick and viscous for a young spirit, very prominent spice with black forest fruits in the background. The finish is medium-long with lingering spiciness and oak. It's well-balanced, but I desire a more complex palate; nevertheless, it's a well-crafted expression for a 3-year-old Australian whiskey aged in Yalumba Barossa Shiraz Octave Barrels.

There's something about this whiskey that resonates perfectly with me. It's semi-sweet, spicy, and fruity, with a hint of baking spice and oak added in. It's truly delicious.

Wonderful aroma of red fruit. The body is intricate, with a light spice and tannins, dark red fruit, and a lengthy finish. Truly well-balanced and quite engaging!!

Very full-bodied. Hints of dried fruit and spice. I'm quite certain this was purchased during a significant price reduction. At that cost, the value is exceptional.