Starward has introduced a new limited-edition whisky release: the Starward Botrytis Cask single malt whisky. Exclusive to the distillery, the new release has spent seven years ageing in casks that once held Botrytis Semillon dessert wine. 

“We looked for a very long time to try and hunt down these barrels, but they rarely appear, as botrytis wines are only made in very small quantities in Australia,” said Head Blender Jarrad Huckshold. 

“We always knew that the flavours of a botrytis cask would work perfectly with our signature spirit, and we were ecstatic when we finally got our hands on some beautiful barrels to play with.”

The use of botrytis casks imparts a decadent, fruity and floral whisky. Huckshold said: “It’s been a delight to see this liquid develop the distinct dessert-like characteristics from the botrytis casks. Orange blossom, apricot and marmalade flavours are delicious and not typical of our Starward style. I’m looking forward to seeing how whisky lovers embrace this new release.”

The new release has been bottled at 48% abv and will cost $169 per 700ml bottle. The product has been made available exclusively via a ballot on Starward’s website. Successful recipients will be drawn from the entry pool on 21 August. 

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