Acclaimed OUTLANDER actor Sam Heughan has achieved a remarkable triumph as his whisky brand claims the top honor at a prestigious annual competition. The stage for this victory is set by Master of Malt, a prominent online whisky retailer that orchestrates its own illustrious whisky championship on an annual basis. This competition serves as a global platform, spotlighting a diverse array of spirits from every corner of the world.
Emerging from this esteemed competition is Heughan's whisky, The Sassenach, a brand that has already secured double gold recognition at the esteemed San Francisco World Spirits Competition in the previous year. In a feat that exemplifies its excellence, The Sassenach has now clinched victory in the esteemed Brands and Bottlers category within the Master of Malt championships.
Astoundingly, The Sassenach garnered a staggering 76% of the collective votes cast, surpassing the 36,000 mark within its designated category. The resounding support from enthusiasts underscores its widespread appeal and the remarkable journey it has undertaken.
The genesis of The Sassenach can be traced back to its debut in 2020 as part of Heughan's Great Glen Company venture, a platform committed to disseminating Scottish products and culture to a global audience. Praised for its captivating sweetness, The Sassenach Blended Whisky has garnered not only the attention of whisky aficionados but also prestigious accolades. Notably, it secured a gold distinction at the International Spirits Challenge, a venerable competition with a storied history spanning over 25 years.
Buy The Sassenach Blended Scotch Whisky
However, Heughan's triumph has not been devoid of controversy. Allegations have arisen, suggesting that fervent fans of the acclaimed TV show "Outlander," in which Heughan portrays the iconic Jamie Fraser, rallied to ensure The Sassenach scotch whisky garnered sufficient votes. This debate underscores the impassioned engagement and impact that fandom can wield in the world of spirits.
Addressing the controversy, Charlotte Gorzelak, the social media manager at Master of Malt, clarified the competition's foundation. The Master of Malt Whisky Championships are meticulously structured on the bedrock of public vote. The ethos of fairness is upheld, enabling real individuals to determine the deserving victor each year. The competition's mechanics rely on polls, where followers and website visitors wield the authority to propel brands forward or eliminate them from contention. This approach serves as a democratic cornerstone, ensuring an equitable outcome, immune to the influence of vote-buying.
Sam Heughan's triumph extends beyond the realm of whisky, as he ventured into the realm of gin with the launch of The Sassenach Wild Scottish Gin earlier this year.
