[bellytimber]

I really like rye whiskey, but I haven't been drinking that much of it for a year or so. But I just moved into SF, so I'll look around for Old Potrero. Any opinions on the big label ryes (Jim Beam, Old Overholt, Wild Turkey, others maybe)?

I think 10-15% of the reason I like rye is for the illusion that I'm in a saloon and aloof and that at any moment I might indeed skin that smoke wagon and shoot one of y'all. I find this works best if I drink it neat. But am I totally blowing it--do you think rye should be taken with a little water?

And what should happen to bartenders who, when you ask them if they have rye whiskey, say yes and then serve you a Rock and Rye? Skin the smokewagon?