Whisky Recommendations?

[marcmagus]

I'd like to pick up two more bottles of whisky so I have some variety to choose from when I want a drink [of whisky]. I currently have half a bottle of Balvenie Doublewood [12] and whatever's left of my current bottle of Tullamore Dew. I recently finished a bottle of Oban [14].

I know I have a number of friends who are whisky drinkers, and who are better than I at keeping track of the labels of what they like. I'd really appreciate recommendations.

I'm primarily looking for single-malt scotch.

Price is definitely an issue, as I'm still not working.

I've been finding myself frequently craving something with a smoky flavor, so recommendations in that direction would be especially welcome.

I think a good plan would be to get one bottle now (probably something smoky), and postpone other purchases until after Pinewoods presumably offers an opportunity to taste a bunch of stuff. And to take notes when I taste things.

Also, if anybody's going to be in Ireland anytime soon, I would greatly appreciate a bottle of Tullamore Dew purchased from a liquor store on Irish soil. Side-by-side comparison has demonstrated a marked difference. (Sadly, we didn't have the foresight to go with full double-blind, but still...) This is a standing request any time I have less than 1L on hand; I'd be happy to repay the favor in a mutually agreeable manner.

Any suggestions?