• Starward strikes gold at Global Spirits Competition

Melbourne distiller Starward Whisky's ascension in an ever-crowded (and increasingly lucrative) local craft spirit market has forced relocation from a converted aircraft hangar at Essendon Fields to a twice-the-size Port Melbourne warehouse.

The 3500-square-metre site showcases gleaming distillation equipment, some 2500 full-to-the-brim barrels and a polished open-plan bar to fully enjoy the fruits of the operation.

Starward's mainstay Solera and wine-cask editions are served neat or on the rocks – or as the hero in, say, a whisky sour or Old Fashioned cocktail.

There are also some interesting experimental drops and a barrel-aged Korenwijn gin, while collaborations with brewers Moondog and Boatrocker will please beer enthusiasts.

A charcuterie and cheese menu is in the works.

Daily hosted tours of the site ($10) include whisky tastings.

Open Fri 2pm-late; Sat-Sun noon-late.

Starward Distillery, 50 Bertie Street, Port Melbourne, 9005 4420, starward.com.au