Introducing Co-Ferment Shiraz. The second varietal release from our Grape x Malt Australian Spirit.

Available exclusively at STARWARD from 14 May, World Whisky Day. 

At Starward, we've always believed that the best things happen when curiosity outpaces convention. Co-Ferment is proof of that. 

This is the second Co-Ferment release, following Cabernet Sauvignon in 2025 and explores the Shiraz varietal.  Where Cab Sav brought structure and cool-fruit precision, Shiraz moves into more aromatic territory. Dark fruit. More esters. A depth of flavour that carried through distillation in a way that delighted the team. 

Co-Ferment Shiraz is available online and at the Starward Distillery & Bar from Thursday 14 May. RRP $159. Stock is limited. 

DISTILLING THROUGH A WINE LENS

Carlie Dyer spent seven years in Australia’s wine industry before joining Starward in 2018.  

“I came from winemaking, and when I joined Starward I was really inspired by our red wine barrel maturation. That’s when I started wondering — what would happen if the two came together not just in maturation, but from the very beginning of the distillation process?”  

Co-fermentation, combining freshly crushed grape juice with malted barley wash in the same fermentation vessel was developed from scratch starting in 2018, driven by Carlie’s provocation. Technically, under Australian alcohol categories, it’s a spirit drink.  

The 2025 Cabernet Sauvignon was the proof of concept. Shiraz is the evolution. Where Cab Sav brought structure and cool-fruit precision, Shiraz pushes into aromatic territory that carries right through distillation.  

“There are more strawberries and red fruits in this release, the Cabernet was more herbaceous with black fruits and toffee which really speaks to the wine varietals” 

“This project began as a small batch curiosity but has demonstrated the flavour potential of cross category fermentation. ” 

Carlie Dyer, Head Distiller and Blender 

TASTING NOTES

Nose:  Plum, raspberries, black forest chocolate,  

Palate: Burst of fresh red berries on the front palate, drawing out to flavours of vanilla slice, coconut & baking spice. 

Finish: Freshly buttered toast & vanilla slice 

HOW WE DRINK THIS

Carlie lowered the ABV on this release intentionally. 

"It really came alive with dilution — the Shiraz aromas are bright and the palate has a luscious texture that leans into more brandy territory than whisky." 

Her recommendation? Neat, or in a Sazerac — a cocktail traditionally made with either Cognac or whisky. With Co-Ferment Shiraz, you get the best of both. 

"You have the best of both wine and whisky when it comes to Co-Ferment." 

Available online at STARWARD and at the Distillery & Bar, Port Melbourne - from Thursday 14 May.

RRP $159. Limited release — once it's gone, it's gone.