Perhaps the best way to experiment is to start with a brand you know you liked, and try others from the same region... noting that **price** is often a good guide to the stature of a brand or age OF a brand within each region.

There are book and online guides to steer you in 'general' directions. If there is a local tasting club...or gathering (Scottish games are an annual event in many locales, and it is common to find samples of folks favorites at clan tables).

I learned VERY early that I did not like the heavy peated stuff like Laphroaig.... and I did like many of the Speyside brands.

I went on, like others, to discover Highland Park, and decided long ago that it would be my choice to be marooned on a desert island with. (as old as possible... but I can't afford the really expensive stuff.)

Now... the thing is, Highland Park is wonderful, but it is like delicious but plain roast beef... it doesn't stand out as an 'unusual' flavor. (as Laphroaig does) If I want my taste buds waked up , I'll go for either Talisker or Springbank. Talisker is... ummmm... an experience. *BOOM*...wow. Springbank has a little tang of peat, and something like a 'salty' flavor. It is one of the few remaining Campbelltown whiskeys, and I love it, even though I don't want it for everyday.

Another one I savor is Cragganmore, which has a 'deeper' (hard for me to describe) that is nice as a nightcap.

And yes, Aberlour is a great whiskey.... and for a relatively inexpensive, but gentle drink, Auchentoshan. Just nice sipping.

The range of Glenmorangies, aged in various types of barrels is always good... you just have to decide what YOU prefer.

And for the daring who like it strong in alcohol, Aberlour's A'bunadu is amazing! YUM!

If only I could afford to try all those other brands... but unless I am offered a taste, I usually just stick with the dozen I know...