This guy knows what he is talking about.As a rule, a single malt should never be mixed with anything - including ice (but if it's cask strength, you can add a small amount of water).
A single malt represents generations of expertise; an attempt at perfection in a glass. Macallan for example is matured in old sherry casks which add to the flavour.
Get a cheap blend for cooking
I try to stay out of this subforum but had to comment. So many differences you cannot group them all into "scotch". The smells, the tastes, the combination and effect of the 2 on each other, so much to try and experience before ruling out scotch. But a good experience with scotch is not had by mixing with anything. Save the rare circumstance where a dab of room temp water is acceptable.
Pardon me, I must go find a meeting lol