American Blended Whiskey

Whiskey that combines straight whiskey with lighter neutral grain spirit or other whiskeys. The result is smoother and lighter-bodied than straight bourbon or rye, and usually more affordable.

Bourbon must be at least 51% corn, aged in new charred oak, with nothing added. Blended American whiskey has more flexible rules and can include neutral spirit, which lightens the flavor.

Not inherently — it's a different goal. Blending is aimed at smoothness and consistency rather than intensity, which is exactly what you want in a highball or a big-batch cocktail.

Mixing. Its lighter profile shines with cola, ginger ale, lemonade or in a whiskey sour, where a bolder bourbon would dominate.