The Starward Distillery is located in Melbourne. Melbourne is the gourmet capital of Australia and also has delicacies to offer for one or the other whiskey lover. The varied weather elicits both distinctive aromas and delicious flavors from the distillate. Every single ingredient comes from the surrounding area and is sourced no more than an hour's drive away. "Fortis" comes from Latin meaning "bold" or "courageous" and is one of the highest proof bottlings yet released by Starward Distillery. This single malt is aged exclusively in American oak casks for a rich flavor and toasted oak and vanilla character. A large proportion of the casks are sourced from wineries in the Barossa Valley, which previously held Shiraz and Cabernets. Some barrels of these are toasted to give them more complexity. No chill filtration. Awards: - Double gold medal at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Tasting notes:Color: Soft mahogany. Nose: Vanilla, toasted American oak, blackberry jam, raisins, caramelized figs, overripe plums. Taste: vanilla, quince paste, muscadelle raisins, chocolate, cinnamon, freshly baked banana bread. Finish: Long lasting, balanced, notes of baking spices, oak, ripe figs, raisins. Enjoy neat or as a classic cocktail with vermouth, Campari or orange bitters.