[dbrian]

Adding a bit of water brings out flavors you don't experience neat. It's a personal preference.

http://youtu.be/ajqd62fE73E?t=6m23s

[jrockway]

I've heard this, but I don't really buy it. The whisky is already diluted at bottling time, unless it's "cask strength".

[taternuts]

Try it! The first whiskey I've tried it with was Glenfiddich 12, and I was amazed at how it sweetened/changed the flavor profile with just a tiny splash.

[arnarbi]

I suggest doing a blind test. I did several times, and definitely noticed a difference from adding a few drops of water in most high-end whiskys.

[rm445]

Indeed, it's quite likely that rather than bringing out flavour through some sort of chemical or physical change, the dilution just reduces the alcoholic bite, allowing you to enjoy the other flavours more.

But still, you can certainly taste the difference and decide which you like best.

[habosa]

I've definitely seen serious whiskey drinkers add a little water to break the oils at the surface and release flavors like you said. I was more commenting on putting a giant spherical ice cube in your whiskey. But again, to each his own and there is no "right" way to do anything.

[erbo]

I'm told that, ideally, you should use the same water that the whisky was made from in the first place. But that may be apocryphal.

[alexmayyasi]

Seconded! Always fire back at people who try to look down at having a drink on the rocks!