While many people chill their vodka or gin, whiskey enthusiasts usually prefer to enjoy their spirits at room temperature. Adam Edwards, the national brand ambassador for Heaven’s Door Whiskey, emphasizes that chilling whiskey can mute its complex flavors, which can include notes of chocolate, tobacco, and oak.

According to Edwards, well-made whiskeys are crafted to be savored neat, meaning that chilling either the whiskey or the glass can detract from the tasting experience. "Cold whiskey tends to have muted flavors," Edwards notes, explaining that serving whiskey at a colder temperature can alter its viscosity and how flavors are perceived.

He advises against chilling the glassware as well, claiming it can be uncomfortable and hampers the overall experience of enjoying the whiskey. So, while chilling certain cocktails may enhance their flavor, when it comes to whiskey, he advocates for appreciating it at or slightly below room temperature to fully experience its intricate profile.

For those who enjoy their whiskey chilled, Edwards acknowledges personal preference but encourages whiskey drinkers to try it at room temperature for a richer tasting experience.

Read more about whiskey and its nuances on Chowhound.