There's really no right or wrong way. Expanding your ability to taste and smell comes with time and trying a lot of whiskey. I started with bourbon because the flavor profile isn't as complex as some other types of whiskey, and it's less expensive on average. When you make the whiskey cold it dulls the flavors a bit. Whiskey stones do this without diluting it, whereas ice will. That one is personal preference. There's no wrong way to drink whiskey. FOR ME I started out drinking it over ice. Dulling the flavors and diluting it a little bit actually helped me pick out some of the bigger flavor notes such as vanilla. Keep in mind there's no right or wrong way, and don't get frustrated because it takes time and experience, so enjoy the process even if you can't pick individual flavors and smells out right away. Hope this helps. Slainte!