A subject I'm fond of. One of the best references on single malts is http://www.scotch-whisky.org.uk/frame.htm This is supposed to have all of the distilleries and brands of single malts along with several blends. My favorite is Glenmorangie Port Finish with Cragenmore a very close 2nd. The Glenlivet, and don't forget the THE, is a good place to start. Another good one to start out with is Glenfiddich. What the heck, they're ALL good!! :-)