Natalie,
The addition of perhaps a teaspoon of water to an ounce or two of single malt just files the edge off a touch and makes the sipping even more sublime. And, of course, room temperature means Scottish room temperature, not American overheated.
Talisker is a mild little eastern malt but not in the same league, smoke-wise with Laphroig. Not to say better or worse, just different.
Enjoy!