What characterizes blended American whiskey?

Blended American whiskey is characterized primarily by its composition, which is a blend of straight whiskey mixed with light whiskey or neutral spirit. This blending process allows for a smoother and more approachable flavor profile, making it appealing to a wider range of consumers. The inclusion of light whiskey or neutral spirit can enhance the overall drinkability of the final product, offering a balance between the richness of straight whiskeys and the lighter, less intense characteristics brought by the other components.

In American whiskey production, the term "straight whiskey" refers to whiskey that has been aged in new charred oak barrels for at least two years. However, blended American whiskey takes this a step further by incorporating other forms of whiskey or neutral spirits, which distinguishes it from other varieties that may consist solely of straight whiskey or those exclusively made from malted grains.

Moreover, while aging in new charred oak barrels is indeed a requirement for straight whiskey, it does not mean that all blended whiskeys must exclusively meet those conditions, allowing for greater flexibility in production methods and flavor profiles. By blending the two types of whiskey, producers can create a product that appeals to various tastes and preferences.