Generally, it’s an either-or proposition – either you like Islay whisky or you don’t – there’s no region more polarizing to the inexperienced whisky drinker than this killer little Island.

This NAS from an unnamed distillery (likely an established outfit like Ardberg or Lagavulin that on sold some younger barrels) bottled on Islay is interesting for its price point; a rich, peaty expression with strong smoke traces. The cask strength abv of 58% means it’s a powerful dram.

It’s simple. If you like peated malt whisky you’ll enjoy this expression, especially with a little water top open up the peat smoke flavor and char. If you don’t, then maybe try another quality Scottish whisky from elsewhere on this list.

Bonus Islay: Laphroaig 10 Year Old

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A more usual ABV strength Islay whisky, this is the type of strong bodied peaty single malt a rookie can enjoy (hopefully).

This 10 year old peated whisky is full of smoke, iodine, and sea salt. You’ll be confronted by the briney flavor from the outset – it’s apparently the only single malt Scotch Laphroaig Master Blender John Campbell recommends you take with water.

I like peat smoke, but many don’t. Make sure you work past the first swallow and keep an open mind, because an appreciation for Islay peated whisky will hold you in good stead.

5. Speyside: Cardhu Gold Reserve

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Another non-age statement single malt (which comes up regularly in the cheap Scotch section, understandably) I’d heartily recommend this Scotch for novices. Cardhu lacks the cachet of Speyside favorites the Macallan or Glenfarclas, but lacks the steep price as well.

There’s a nice aroma of spice and stone fruit, while on the palate it stays quite fresh and allows the toasted oak from the hand-picked casks make a statement then flow into a lovely mellow finish. The quintessential easy drinking single malt scotch whisky, if you’re starting your adventure, I recommend this expression to kick off with.