When Diageo invested in Australia’s 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 Diageo’s most popular Scottish distillery: Lagavulin.

Starward’s 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 Melbourne’s 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, it’s perhaps the best whisky we’ve 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, it’s 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, we’re excited to see where Diageo’s partnership takes Starward for their next collaboration. Might we see a Talisker or Clynelish cask finish in the future?