What defines blended Irish whiskey?

Blended Irish whiskey is defined as a combination of two or more different types of whiskey produced by at least two distilleries. This blending process can include various styles of whiskey, such as single malt, single pot still, and grain whiskey, which contribute to a more complex flavor profile. The goal of blending is to create a smooth and balanced taste, which is a hallmark of many popular Irish whiskeys.

In contrast, other options like using only malted barley, being produced from a single distillery's output, or consisting solely of pot still whiskey do not encapsulate the essence of blended Irish whiskey. Those criteria would apply to more specific styles, such as single malt or single pot still whiskey, which emphasize individual distillation methods and materials rather than the blending approach characteristic of blended whiskeys.