Looking for some recommendations

First of all - I love this site! It has been very helpful!

My best friend's birthday is coming up and I want to buy him a nice bottle of scotch. He doesn't want anything sweet, and hasn't really been able to afford a good bottle.

What would be a good scotch to start him out with?

thanks!
Kat

KellyKat- first, let me ask you this...what kind of scotch does he drink now?

He hasn't had much of a budget. I know he's had lots of American bourbons and whisky. But nothing nice or higher end.

thanks so much for your time!
Kelly

I would probably suggest to go with something a bit mainstream. Consider Glenlivet, Glenfiddich, Highland Park, Macallan. Of course which year you buy depends on your budget.

[powderhound]

I'd recommend Oban 14.

Around here it goes for $65-$75.

I really like it for someone who isn't sure what they like, as it doesn't have really any strong flavors that overpower any others. But, it has a great variety of flavors that really work wonderfully together.

Slight peat, slightly sweet, so many flavors all together that really are perfectly balanced.

Another good one is Macallan 12 double cask. It is very smooth, polished. Very sweet and easy to drink. People that I know that are just beer drinkers that usually can't handle a whisky enjoy this one. I don't find it to be the most engaging whisky, but it is very pleasant and enjoyable.