Starward Octave Barrels is an Australian single malt whisky produced at Starward's distillery in Port Melbourne. It is matured in 100-liter American oak octave barrels that previously held Yalumba's The Octavius Shiraz, resulting in intense wood-to-spirit contact and deep red fruit character. The whisky was distilled in 2018, bottled in 2021 at 48% ABV, and retails for around $80.
Tasting is a bit of a rollercoaster with the palate starting with a spicy, oak filled bite followed by a rush of dried fruits (prunes, berries, dates).
