Starward comes out with its eighth release of the Ginger Beer Cask finish as part of their “Project” series, but this time dressed in a more vivid and lively theme, aligning closer to its siblings. Filled in 2019, this ginger beer influenced dram was bottled and released mid this year. Initially part of their experimental release, they now seem to have taken a permanent spot in their line up.

The contents of the GB Cask are aged in a combination of red wine and apera wine casks for a minimum of three years; and as the name suggests then finished for about two years in casks that previously held ginger beer.

The funny thing is that these very barrels that aged their local ginger beers for 12 months, are in fact ex-Starward American oak casks that previously housed their Nova, 100 Proof and Solera expressions. A somewhat symbiotic relationship perhaps, between wine, whisky and beer casks; and an effective use of re-used or rejuvenated indigenous barrels within the distillery to achieve the desired flavour profile. Whether it hits the sweet spot or not, would depend on how palatable the ginger profile might be to the consumer.

ABV : 48%

Eye : Chestnutoloroso Sherry| Natural Colouring

Nose : Ginger, sugar cane, with influences of grain; vanilla, earthy wood and some char. There’s more spice, emanating from white pepper and some herbal, medicinal nuances mixed in with hints of red apple and some orange zest.

Taste : Ginger nut biscuits, coupled with red wine influences, plums and caramel. Orange rind and green pears along with a pinch of pepper and cinnamon.

Finish : Medium to long | Sweet ginger, with a settling, warm zesty spice.

This Starward is drenched in ginger from head to toe, with a good mouth feel and a flavour that isn’t harsh. Having said that, it does seem bi-polar; often conflicted, mirroring a root beer. A good thing but can sway against it is the ginger profile that could for some be one sided. With this expression you do get an acceptable spectrum of flavours – there’s the sweetness of fruit, a light earthy, herbal spice and some wood but there is a lack of depth.

At AUD $149, it is another take on its ginger heritage but still an expensive one. The expression successfully inherits its influences from the ginger beer barrels and provides for a pleasurable, yet subtle experience. A dram that is fun and pleasing but can be comprehended as borderline overwhelming.

Slainte!