Game of Thrones actor Rory McCann invests in a new Scotch whisky Slanj

Game of Thrones actor Rory McCann has invested in a new blended Scotch whisky brand, called Slanj.

Brothers Brian and Craig Halley, alongside friend Stuart Montgomerie – an investor and adviser to several Scottish businesses – founded the whisky.

The trio said they have dreamed of launching a Scotch for over a decade, securing the Slanj brand name nearly ten years ago and have waited patiently for the right blend.

The name comes from the Scottish toast ‘slàinte’, which means ‘health’ and is pronounced Slanj-a-va in English.

Long-time whisky lover and Scottish actor Rory McCann, best known for playing Sandor ‘The Hound’ Clegane in hit TV show Game of Thrones, has invested in the firm.

‘I’ve always loved whisky, but SLANJ hits different,’ he said.

‘It’s smooth, no smoke, no fuss – just a bold, easy-going dram anyone can enjoy. I’m proud to back a whisky that’s pure Scottish spirit, without the rules. It’s the ultimate Scottish toast to the world.’

The first edition Slanj blend is made up of 70% Speyside single malt matured in Sherry casks and 30% Highland single malt matured in Bourbon casks. 

‘Scotch doesn’t need to be sacred to be exceptional,’ said founder Brian.

‘We’ve always loved the craft, but we wanted to create something that felt less like a ritual and more like a moment. 

‘Something people could enjoy instinctively, without second-guessing how to drink it. 

‘We’ve held onto the SLANJ name for nearly a decade, waiting for the right time and the right whisky.

‘After years in the making, SLANJ feels like the whisky Scotland’s been waiting for.’

Bottled at 46%, non-chill filtered and with natural colour, it delivers a smooth and rounded profile with fruit, subtle sweetness and gentle spice – while deliberately holding back on any smoke.

Whisky writer and co-founder of the Maclean Foundation, Charles MacLean, also added to the new launch with his seal of approval.

‘Slanj Whisky has been years in the making and it has been especially rewarding to follow its journey and see what the team has achieve,’ he said.

‘ We are all very proud of this moreish blend.’

Read more Whisky news here.

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