How it’s served
On the rocks
On the rocks means served over ice, usually in a short rocks glass. "Rocks" is bar slang for ice cubes.
In practice
A spirit on the rocks is poured straight over ice; a cocktail on the rocks is mixed, then strained over fresh ice in the glass. One large cube melts more slowly than several small ones, so the drink waters down less.
Drinks to try it with
On the rocks, in short
What does on the rocks mean?
On the rocks means served over ice, usually in a short rocks glass. "Rocks" is bar slang for ice cubes.