To give you the best chance of winning:

1. Prepare your palate
   Start with a clean slate by eating a plain snack, such as crackers or bread, to cleanse your palate. Sip water to refresh your mouth and ensure you’re ready to taste the whisky’s nuanced flavours.
2. Choose the right glass
   Use a Glencairn glass if you have one to hand, as its shape enhances the aromas and appearance of the whisky. The wide base showcases its colour and body, while the narrow rim focuses the aromas. Don’t worry if you don’t – a small wine glass or tumbler is fine.
3. Let it breathe
   If you can resist diving in straight away, you can allow your dram to sit for 1–2 minutes after pouring to let the flavours develop. Give it a gentle swirl to open up the aromas before nosing.
4. Nose it gently
   There’s a balance between appreciating all your whisky has to offer on the nose and inhaling too deeply. But don’t be afraid to get your nose inside the glass. Keeping your mouth open a little whilst you’re nosing allows different layers of aroma and flavour to come through without being overpowered by the alcohol. 
5. Taste it neat
   Start by tasting the whisky neat, without any additions, to experience its unaltered flavour profile. Take small, slow sips and allow it to coat your mouth. Savour the layers of taste and aroma.
6. Experiment with water
   Add a few drops of water to open up the flavours. This can reveal hidden characteristics and introduce you to new elements of a whisky.
7. Enjoy at room temperature
   Whisky is best served at room temperature (15–21°C). This allows its flavours to be well-balanced, avoiding the muting effects of cold or the sharpness of heat.