For novice whiskey drinkers, there’s no better place to start than whiskey with a bit of water in it. Whiskey is a very strong spirit, and you’ll always feel the burn of the first sip no matter how it’s prepared. However, adding a few drops of water to your whiskey is a great way to take the edge off and get a sense of the bottle’s complexity. To distinguish different notes that make up a whiskey’s composition, swirl the contents of the glass, hold it about six inches away from your nose (lest you set your sinuses on fire), and inhale. You may smell a hint of vanilla in a Kentucky bourbon, or the peaty moss of Scotch, or the peppery punch of a Canadian rye.

Another good way to open the bouquet of a bottle of whiskey is by serving it on the rocks (with ice). Unlike a splash of water in a glass of whiskey, ice takes time to dilute. This makes for a more dynamic drinking experience, because the balance changes as the ice melts. Fans of whiskey on the rocks also appreciate the fire and ice sensation of whiskey’s famous burn countered by a chill that gives you a chance to savor it.

When you get your hands on a bottle of the good stuff, true connoisseurs recommend as little interference as possible.  Fine whiskies are a matter of obsession in certain circles, and they should be experienced in their purest form. Undiluted whiskey is an acquired taste–all whiskey is–but there is something very special in the fiery burn of a well-aged whiskey that is best discovered in its original state.

Last but not least: cocktails (we never forget cocktails around here). Cocktails are a great way to serve whiskey, especially to those who may be on the fence regarding its virtues. Whiskey cocktails highlight the spirit’s most notable attributes and also offer cocktail enthusiasts an opportunity to appreciate its depth and nuance. Blending particularly well with citrus and sweetness, whiskey’s robust nature also makes it a natural pairing with herbs like mint and rosemary. Try crafting an Old Fashioned or Manhattan for a great place to start. 

If bubbles tickle your fancy, we recommend The Golden Dram. This effervescent cocktail pairs Scotch with a sugar cube steeped in a dash Angostura bitters topped with Prosecco or your favorite champagne. If you’re feeling festive, Hot Toddies are a wonderful way to ring in the holidays. For a taste of the Big Easy, you can’t go wrong with a Carthusian Sazerac, which combines 2.5 oz. of rye whiskey with a splash of green Chartreuse, half an ounce of simple syrup, and a dash of lemon bitters served in a rocks glass with an absinthe rinse. Top it off with a lemon twist and raise a glass to this versatile spirit.