Starward Whisky Breaks Free: Back in the Founder’s Hands

Wednesday, 28 January 2026 at 13:18

Australian whisky maker Starward Whisky is marking a pivotal moment in its journey. The distillery is once again entirely owned by founder David Vitale, officially closing the chapter of external shareholders. Starward has separated from Diageo and other investors, returning to the original vision of its founder.

Since 2015, Starward had been part of the Distill Ventures program, an initiative through which Diageo supported promising distilleries with capital, expertise, and international distribution. While that collaboration helped Starward make a name for itself around the world, the time has now come to forge ahead independently. Diageo is gradually winding down the program and parting ways with every participant.

Starward fully back with its original owner

For Starward Distillery, the program is ending a little earlier than planned. Vitale has bought back all shares and is once again leading the distillery himself. He looks back with pride on the past eight years and speaks with ambition about what lies ahead.

“Australian whisky is still young. We’re just getting started, and there is so much more we can do. I lead an incredibly talented team, and I believe our best years are still ahead of us.”

- David Vitale

At the same time, he emphasizes his gratitude to Diageo and the other shareholders. According to Vitale, they played a crucial role in Starward’s professional growth and in reaching an international audience.

From aircraft hangar to global recognition

Starward was founded in 2007 in a former Qantas aircraft hangar at Essendon Fields, near Melbourne. What began as an experimental project grew into one of Australia’s most influential whisky producers. Over the years, the distillery has won multiple international awards, firmly putting Australian whisky on the global map.

Initially, the whiskies were sold only within Australia, followed by a selective global release. A well-known example is Starward Left-Field, now available in several countries. The brand’s signature style, maturing in Australian red wine casks, has been praised worldwide for its approachability and distinctive character.

What the next chapter holds for Starward remains to be seen. What is clear is that the distillery is heading into the future with renewed freedom and focus.