Generally speaking the older a spirit gets the less well it reacts with ice and water. Calvados and Armagnac have almost always been consumed neat and this is the best way to try them for the first time. If you still feel that they have too much heat, then add a very small drop of spring water. The choice of glassware is also personal. The traditional Brandy balloon concentrates a lot of the more volatile alcohol where you nose the spirit, often giving an impression harsher than in reality. My personal choice is a glass that flares out slightly at the top, but rests comfortably in the hand. It is always beneficial to allow the spirit to breathe for a period before you take your first sip. It also gives time for your anticipation to build! | 
