Ive never tasted an alcoholic beverage that I truly liked.
I think most men want to feel cool and hip and manly, and that is why they pretend to actually like the taste of alcohol.
Yes, I have tried expensive liquor and it all taste like absolute shit. There is nothing savory about any alcoholic beverage. Gross shit.
You're familiar with the term "acquired taste"?
One night I went out and decided I needed a drink that was different than beer. I saw "jack daniels, rocks" in a magazine and said that would be it.
First sip actually made me shudder. Then ice started melting a bit, and it was better, but not great.
Then I read up on bourbons, learned what to look for, how to open them up, etc.....and acquired the taste.
The higher end ones are now unbelievable.
If I started with them though ,probably would have the same result you did.