Looking to Learn About and Buy a Single Malt Scotch

Gidday from Australia,

My best mate and myself had decided to buy a bottle of JWblue for NYE this year.
I have been turned off by the idea because I think I will be paying for the hype $200AUD.

So I have been researching Single Malts over the past few days, now I am really confused!!

Whilst doing my research I have decided that any Scotch from Islay may be to strong for us beginners.
I also think that anything from the Lowland region may be a little to subtle for us.

My idea of what I want to try in a single malt would include descriptions like ,
Smooth, Smokey, complex aromas, somewhat sweet, not hot or peppery, and definitely individual.

I am willing to pay up to $200AUD for this pleasure.

I know I am asking a lot, and also it may have already been covered in this forum. But I am running out of time fast.

Any Help or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

Regards and Thank You
Andrew