I find drinking it with skim milk instead of water is a BIT better, Vit D milk would give it a thicker consistancy like a milk shake but has alot of fat in it. Im only taking straight whey protein. No mass builder or any of that kind of stuff, not sure if that would have an effect on the taste.
Using a blender will always net better results. But for ease of use I just shake it when i dont have the time. I use "100% whey", I dont remember the company who makes it. I cant wait to use the blender I got for xmas with some bannana's and strawberries to see what i can make out of this junk.