Starward Left-Field Review: Fruity and Approachable, if not Particularly Complex

Can you mix a single malt whisky? For many whisky lovers, that’s almost heresy. Starward Distillery saw it differently. The Australian distillery launched Starward Left-Field, a single malt created, according to its makers, specifically for mixing. But how does the whisky stand on its own? You’ll find out in this review.

Starward Distillery in Melbourne has been crafting various spirits for quite some time. While not all of the brand’s Down Under whiskies make it around the globe, a few are widely available.

One of them is Starward Left-Field, a single malt named after one of the grain fields the distillery works with. Using this malted barley, Starward distilled a spirit that matured in oak red wine barrels. This took place in Melbourne’s ever-changing climate, which helps the whisky come across as older than it actually is.

The whisky is then bottled without an age statement at a welcoming 40 percent. It’s fruity, gentle, and notably light, making it, according to Starward, perfect for a great cocktail.

The Starward Left-Field bottle is sleek and sophisticated. There’s little fuss, no ornate motifs or frills. The only embossing in the glass reads To New Horizons. It’s a nod to how Starward approaches whisky: traditional at heart, with a modern twist.

The bottle’s stopper is made from a soft synthetic material with the Starward Distillery logo pressed into it.

As soon as you pour this single malt, the influence of the red wine casks is unmistakable. The whisky carries a light wine-like aroma alongside fresh notes of apple and a touch of tropical fruit. There’s no trace of smoke, overt malt, or spice, just a predominantly sweet profile.

Your first sip confirms what the nose suggests. Notes of fruit like apple and red berries glide by in a nicely balanced whole. Hold it on the palate for a moment and a hint of spice appears.

It’s a very approachable whisky for newcomers who aren’t seeking smoke or heavy oak. This Australian dram goes down almost dangerously easily. The finish doesn’t offer much room for reflection, which is a shame. The whisky says a very quick goodbye to your palate, making way for the next sip.

Starward Left-Field is an ideal entry-level whisky for budding enthusiasts and fits any occasion. For seasoned whisky drinkers it’s not a challenging dram or one you’ll save for milestones, but it’s still a bottle worth having. Thanks to its accessible character, it’s an excellent base for a tasty cocktail like an Old Fashioned.

+ A solid single malt for just a few tenners

+ Exceptionally good in cocktails

+ Accessible, fruity character

- Limited depth for experienced whisky fans