[bkblankenship]

Hi,

If you are on a tight budget, a good malt that is pleasant and malty and will not break the bank is TAMDHU 10-Year-Old. It can usually be had in the $20 - $22 range.

A word about miniatures. They're good for trying an expression without investing in a full bottle, but remember the price per liter goes up drastically if you drink minis on a regular basis.

Another word. Islay malts are not good beginner malts. The advice I offer on Islays is that you give it a while before breaking into Islays. It takes a while to develop the nose and palate for these whiskies, but when you do, the sensory rewards will be worth the patience. Development of the nose an palate is long-term, not short-term.

Good Luck on finding your staple malt.