Good beginner whiskey?

[Andyman3]

Hi I recently got into whiskey thanks to my older brother. I like to drink it -- definitely my drink of choice. Now I want to learn about it. What's a good, smooth sipping whiskey for moderate level whiskey drinkers?

[Ganga]

Depends on the individuals preferences. Glenmorangie 10 for a smooth, sweet barley character. Balvenie 12 Doublewood is a nice sherry as is Macallan 12. Highland Park 12 provides a little smoke and honey flavor. Woodford Reserve is a sweet bourbon. Give us a little more of flavors that interest you.

[AdamMY]

We need to know where you want to start, and what types of flavors you like. At the same time two more to consider as all around likeable whiskys is Old Pulteney 12 and anCnoc 12. Both should be reasonably affordable too.

Not to mention there are the almost standard ubiquitious starter drams of either Glenfiddich 12 year old or Glenlivet 12 year old.

[The Third Dram]

Not to mention there are the almost standard ubiquitious starter drams of either Glenfiddich 12 year old or Glenlivet 12 year old.

Hard to go far wrong here in terms of consistency and availability.

[Whisky Sounds]

Balvenie 12Y Doublewood is a good one, in my opinion.

[whiskgeek]

There are many decent, inoffensive, not-high-priced single malt Scotches. Dalmore, Glenkinchie, Bunnhabbhain, Aberlour, The Laddie Ten (Bruichladdich), Cragganmore, Glenrothes, Oban.

Now if you want something a little more adventurous... Talisker, Caol Ila, Ardbeg, Macallan Cask Strength, Aberlour Abunadh.

[Gearóidmuar]

Some of the best whiskies are blends. There is an illogical prejudice (marketing) towards single malts.
Johnny Walker Black Label and Double Black are excellent.
Green Label better.
Ballantine's 12 Year Old.

For cheap whiskey, can't beat the Irish ones, Paddy, Power's, Bushmills Original, Tullamore Dew. These are nicer than the cheap Scotches like Teacher's etc.

It can take a LONG time to get a taste for some whiskies. I hate Bourbons for years and by persistence, not only got to like them, but they're practically my favourites now.

A former Scottish boss of mine used a term, a session whiskey. This was for one you can drink all night and the taste doesn't pall. The very strong tasting ones like Laphroaoig would not be in this category.
My tops in this regard. Paddy and Johnny Walker Black Label.