One of the fun things about the rising popularity of whisky, is that there are lots of people discovering brands, so you can discuss the whisky tastes with many. The gain in popularity unfortunately also gives rise to many so-called experts. I hate it when someone acts like I just killed a puppy when I add an ice cube to my whisky.


First of all, drinking whisky on-the-rocks is indeed not done : filling your glass with ice cubes to the top, and then adding whisky only leaves you halfway with a dram of cold water tasting like cheap whisky.
However, adding a touch of water to a shot of pure whisky, especially cold still spring water will enhance the aroma and flavour and bring out the whiskies hidden characteristics. It is worth noting that tap water can contain high levels chlorine and would spoil rather than complement your whisky, if this is the case with your tap water it is best avoided.


Adding one ice cube cools down the whisky, so the alcohol doesn't evaporate so quickly and doesn't leave you gasping for air when you take a large sip. Don't add more than one or two cubes (depending on the size of your dram) : adding too much ice will freeze the taste, and your tongue will be numbed too much by the coldness of the ice.


There is no art of drinking whisky. There is no heresy in adding stuff to a dram. There's only your favorite taste, and some evident facts on how whisky reacts to additives. Just try to experiment on your favorite way of having a drink. But do try once to have a shot of pure whisky. You will be amazed how different the taste will be.