Sam Heughan on Whiskey Neat: Talking Outlander, Sassenach Whisky, and more

Outlander -- Courtesy of STARZ -- Acquired via STARZ Media Center
Outlander -- Courtesy of STARZ -- Acquired via STARZ Media Center

The Outlander stars are starting the official promotion of the show, as well as their own projects. Sam Heughan appeared on Whiskey Neat. Here’s a look.

Last weekend saw Sam Heughan and other Outlander stars attend Wizard World New Orleans. During that time, Heughan also spoke to Kristopher Hart at Whiskey Neat about the series and his upcoming launch of Sassenach Whisky.

The interview started off with Heughan talking about Outlander, but this was more than just talking about the fifth season. He had a chance to talk about Scotland and how working on the TV show helped him fall in love with his home country again. The discussion of Scotland came up with because of a talk about whisky and getting into the different types.

However, he did admit that he does like something sweeter than whisky. Of course, that doesn’t mean he’s given up on his national drink.

For those who have ever felt homesick, there are going to be moments of the interview that speak to you. I know, personally, there’s a lot that makes me smile. I’ve traveled a lot and live in a different country to the one that I grew up in but also have a connection to Scotland, so I could imagine everything Heughan talks about deeply.

There’s a bit of a whisky quiz during the interview, where Heughan is tested on his whisky knowledge. He has a lot of knowledge, but that doesn’t mean he’ll get all the questions right, including the oldest, still-running whisky distillery.

Sassenach Whisky certainly comes up at around the 18-minute mark. Sam Heughan shares why he chose to go the route he did to get his brand out there, and there’s a date of release. Mark Jan. 25 in your calendars. It has been a slow process because of importing laws. The soft launch happens two days earlier, with a soft launch at the LA BAFTA Burns Night celebrations.

The downside is that the whisky isn’t going to be available everywhere. Only five states will get it at first, but there are hopes to expand that and even move into Europe. Canada and the U.S. are first, though.

You can check out the full interview in the Whiskey Neat video below:

The launch of Sassenach Whisky is Jan. 25 and Outlander Season 5 will be out on Feb. 16 on STARZ.