Starward Whisky
Beverage ManufacturingVictoria, Australia11-50 Employees
Starward Whisky is a Melbourne-based producer in the beverage manufacturing sector that focuses on whisky. Its whiskies are uniquely matured in red wine barrels sourced from Australia’s wine regions and aged in Melbourne’s reactive climate, shaping a distinct flavour profile. The company operates from Port Melbourne with a mid-sized, dedicated team described as nimble and passionate. The brand has earned international recognition through the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, including awards labeling it the most awarded distillery in 2022 and 2024, as well as the most awarded international distillery in 2024. In February 2026, Cheval Rouge completed the acquisition of Starward Distillery from Diageo, returning the brand to founder David Vitale.