Hi Rip,
I learned never to waste a good Islay malt by putting ice in it--just a few drops of water will open it up nicely. This also applies (for me) to Highland malts as well.
However, since I am a Philistine, I like a blended scotch on the rocks, sometimes with a twist. I also like a good Old Fashioned (Rye, no fruit).
With rye and bourbon, I'm inclined to have them with ice, but I suspect I may be in error. In your experience, is whiskey neat, with water as needed, always the best way to go, or are we just discussing personal preferences here?
Thank you for looking--not only are you changing lives with the barbell, you're changing lives at the Bar.
Tom