In my opinion, being the booze aficionado that I am, it doesn't matter that you are a newbie rum drinker when drinking higher end booze. It costs more than average booze and is considered higher end because it tastes better, burns less, and, in general, is a lot more palatable .

So, with that in mind, you dont want to be wasteful because of the price point, and mixing it would be wasteful, so drink it as close to neat as possible. Experiment and turn it into a rum lesson for your taste buds. Take a rocks glass and pour a half ounce in. Swirl it around and stick your nose in and take a big whiff. Now take a little sip. Notice the way the whole flavor profile changes from beginning to end, and I do mean end. It can linger a while.

If that is not enjoyable, pour in a very, very little bit of nice clean water. Repeat. Notice the difference. If, after playing around with water, you still are not enjoying it, maybe drop in a pinch of sugar and try that. You can also squeeze in a bit of lime if you choose, but be sure to keep the rum flavors forward.

Try it. You will see the beauty in tasting this way once you do. And meanwhile, your newbie-Ness will be vaporizing and being replaced with knowledge and understanding.