Starward Lagavulin Cask Single Malt Whiskey 700ml

When Diageo invested in Australias Starward single malt distillery some time ago, we knew that good things were likely destined for the overachieving Melbourne producer. Now, in 2024, we get to see exactly where that partnership is headed through a collaboration with what is arguably Diageos most popular Scottish distillery: Lagavulin.

Starwards use of sweet wine cask maturation lends its whisky a chewier, more supple mouthfeel than most malts of a young age. The addition of peat to that profile is a complete game changer because few flavor combinations are more exciting than sweet + peat. The peat in this instance comes entirely from the leftover Lagavulin residue inside the oak casks, sent to Australia and matured in Melbournes famous four-seasons-in-a-day climate.

Limited to the US in terms of distribution, this limited edition Lagavulin-matured Starward exclusive is not only an exciting new addition to the portfolio, its perhaps the best whisky weve yet tasted from the distillery.

The nose is tropical with aromas of charred pineapple and nectarine with just a touch of peat. The tropical fruits continue through on to the palate with richness and weight that balance out the smoky influence. While thick and expansive on the tongue, its never overbearing or out of balance. The finish is fruity, but dry, with plenty of oak.

Not only are we over the moon about this new Lagavulin edition, were excited to see where Diageos partnership takes Starward for their next collaboration. Might we see a Talisker or Clynelish cask finish in the future?