What does the term "on the rocks" mean?

The term "on the rocks" refers specifically to a drink that is served over ice. This presentation often enhances the drinking experience by keeping the beverage chilled and slightly diluting it as the ice melts, which can open up the flavors of spirits and cocktails. It is commonly used when ordering a variety of drinks, from whiskey to mixed cocktails, signaling that the drink should be poured directly over ice in the glass.

Understanding this terminology is essential for bartenders, as it helps in crafting the drink correctly according to customer preferences. In contrast, serving with whipped cream, serving chilled without ice, or serving straight from the bottle do not accurately describe this specific method of serving drinks. Each of those alternatives signifies a different style of presentation that does not align with the traditional meaning of "on the rocks."