Tomatin 12 year is really good, and relatively inexpensive at $30 a bottle. Bowmore is a nice Islay from my experience. I have heard good things of Glenfiddich, Oban, and Glanmorangie... now that someone has given a nod to the Port finish...which is the one I was wanting to try anyhow... I may have to give it a try. Speyburn is an OK Speyside variety, and it can usually be had for little, around $20 if I recall, maybe $25.