Best single-malt Scotch...

sorry, I meant Bowmore...drinking too much scotch you know!

I agree with Gliderguider's nod to Bruichladdich as an alternative to the better known Islays. But I have to say there are some Laddie's that are relatively expensive and a divergence from the 12 y.o. consumers will generally find on the shelf. In particular, the Links bottling is an outstanding Islay that doesn't beat one's taste buds to death. Limited distilling/release make it an unusual, and pleasing find. Also, Bunnahabhein ('Boonahaveen') is another outstanding Islay, as is Jura. But, if I can find it (and it's increasingly difficult to come by in my neck of the woods) I'd go for the Highland 18, an Orkadian whisky whose peatiness is distinctly more inviting, IMO, than any Islay. As far as combining smoke with a good Scotch, I would use something other than nicotine...

I am currently enjoying a few nice and reasonably priced single malts.

Lagavulin 16 is, for my money, an excellent Islay malt.

Longmorn 15 (Speyside) is an incredible bargain at approx. $60.

Macallan Cask Strength continues to impress me. I keep a bottle of Macallan 18 in my office, but open it far to infrequently...

Bruichladdich 18, Lagavulin 16, The Macallan 18, Glenmorangie 21, Highland Park 21, Springbank 18, Bowmore special reserve 25....and on and on.
I gotta admit, there's something to love in any quality single malt over 15 years old....I even like Lafroig 16.
Nice thread,
I think I'll have me a nice dram of The Macallan Special reserve 18 and a Bass Ale.
Life is good...Schlange!

I had an 18 yr old Benrinnes last night, only available in extremely limited quantities (single cask) but one of the best scotches I've had.

Pepperdog, I haven't seen the Mac SR 18 for years, loved the purple label, and the scotch of course!