Starward 100 proof (fortis) Single Malt Australian Whisky 700ml

Starward 100 Proof (Fortis) Single Malt Australian Whisky 700ml

The Starward 100 Proof (Fortis) Single Malt Australian Whisky is a bold, full-bodied expression that showcases the richness of Australian single malt. Matured in 100% American Oak casks that once held Australian red wine, this whisky is bottled at a robust 50% ABV to deliver intensity, depth, and complexity. With layers of ripe fruits, toasted oak, and warm spices, Fortis is a whisky crafted for enthusiasts who appreciate strength, balance, and character.

• Brand: Starward
• Expression: Fortis (100 Proof)
• Style: Single Malt Australian Whisky
• ABV: 50% (100 Proof)
• Bottle Size: 700ml
• Origin: Australia

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Ripe dark fruits, red berries, vanilla, and toasted oak

Palate: Bold and rich with layers of figs, raisins, dark chocolate, and spice balanced by wine cask sweetness

Finish: Long, warming, and complex with lingering fruit and oak spice

Key Features:
✔ Premium Australian single malt whisky at 100 proof (50% ABV)
✔ Fully matured in American Oak red wine barrels
✔ Bold, rich, and complex flavour profile
✔ Non-chill filtered for full-bodied texture and authenticity
✔ Crafted by Starward – one of Australia’s most awarded distilleries

I tasted this next to a couple of flagship Australian tawny matured malts, and in the Australian context, I’m not sure it quite stands up to its ‘strong’ moniker (different story internationally, though). Personally, I like it more because of that: Australian whisky doesn’t have to be massive to be high quality.

I think there’s just enough wine and grip here, but it never turns to overt winey/woodiness – really well blended. In fact, it’s more Scottish than a lot of other Australian malts in that sense: a more fruit and spirit-forward ‘strong’ whisky, which, I assume, is the idea. Also dangerously quaffable for 50% ABV – shows you I’ve probably been drinking too much Australian whisky lately.

88 points – Luke McCarthy, ozwhiskyreview.com.au