Blended whiskey is a term that can mean different things depending on the country of origin the spirit. In Scotland (and Ireland, for the most part), see [ingredient=blended-scotch Blended Scotch]. In [ingredient=canadian-whisky Canada], all whiskies are blended, and can also be colored with caramel and flavored (usually with oak extracts).
In the United States, a blended whiskey is distinct from a "straight whiskey", which is distilled at less than 160 proof, aged at less than 125 proof for two years, and uncolored and unflavored. Blended American whiskies must contain at least 20% straight whiskey, with the remainder being spirits distilled at over 160 proof (effectively vodka) and water.
Blended whiskies lack a defining flavor profile, and are typicaly made to be light, soft, and inoffensive. They are also typically inexpensive.
Some popular cocktails containing Blended whiskey
- Leatherneck Cocktail — Blended whiskey, Blue Curaçao, Lime juice, Lime
- Dayvan Cowboy — Blended whiskey, Licor 43, Orange bitters, Lemon juice, Orange juice, Pineapple juice