Jock said it: all whiskies are good, it's just that some are better than others. In North America one of the most popular malts is The Glenlivet. Good it is, of course, but there are some truly superb malts available in Scotland that just don't leave the country or for which you have to search and search and search, trying as you go. It will be hard, for sure, and you will just have to think of it as another learning experience. Or you could drop in on http://www.dtcscotch.com/ to visit one of the finest shops in Scotland.

For a blend, if you have an opportunity, try their SS Politician. A really inexpensive blend readily available in North America (I think) is Grant's Sherrywood. Smooth, aromatic and good for that walk-about in the garden or just sitting and thinking.

For a vatted malt especially to the ladies' liking, try Monkey Shoulder. Another good one is Sheep Dip.

If you want to branch out and test some mimics, pick up a bottle of 12 yo The Yamazaki Single Malt out of Japan. I bit harsh, but with a drop of water....

On the subject of additives it will be good to hear from Ferintosh, but most authorities on whisky (I don't know about whiskeys) state that the addition of ice causes the bouquet to pretty well vanish. They tell us that most malts need to have a splash of water added to bring out the aroma and flavour. And the water must not be out of the tap in today's urban environment: too much chlorine and other stuff in there. Instead, triple filter your water or take it directly from the spring. As for soda, lemon, lime, Coke and ginger ale: that's why there are very, very cheap blends. They are not made to drink just as they are, but to be taken with these flavoured or carbonated juices by those who like cocktails.

Having said all that, there really isn't anything better at the end of a cold, wet, winter day outdoors than a hot toddy: a spoonful of sugar in a warm glass, a few drops of lemon juice, enough hot water to dissolve the sugar and a generous measure of whisky. Stir, sip, say "ah" and feel your coldest bones take on a gentle heat.