A Whisky You’ve Never Heard of Was Just Named the World’s Top Distillery. Again

Early last year, I had the opportunity to taste the entire lineup from Starward Australian Whisky. Haven’t heard of the brand? That’s OK, I hadn’t either before I tried it.

I became aware of Starward after the distiller was named the World’s Most Awarded Distillery at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC), which is essentially the Oscars for liquor.

Shortly thereafter, the brand sent me samples of its entire lineup to try, and I was surprised by how much I enjoyed them. Mostly aged in red wine barrels outdoors in Melbourne’s rapidly changing climate, Starward’s whiskies have a character that is both unique and delicious.

While the brand has certainly gained some additional fame on the back of its big SFWSC victory in 2022, it still remains mostly unknown to the general public. But that may change soon, as for the second time in three years, Starward has again been named the Most Awarded International Distillery at the 2024 SFWSC.

More medals than Michael Phelps

Starward managed to outdo its competition-best showing at the 2022 awards by taking home even more medals in 2024. This year, Starward cleaned up with a total of 8 platinum medals, 13 double gold medals and 13 gold medals. It also earned two silver medals and a bronze for good measure, bringing its total haul to 37 medals — more than any other distiller in the world.