I'd favour Laphroaig over the Lagavulin unless, because it comes in a sample pack, you have no choice. But second adding a couple of drops of H2O to let the amber goodness "breath". I've been in bars ( in the US) where you can get water from the distillery in Scotland that produced whatever your chosen drink is - a bit over the top me thinks.

I'll echo the warning against Glenfiddich and add that I'm not so crazy about the Glenlivet either. The Macallan (any) is a delicious way to get into scotch whiskey, with the caveat that I think it's one of the least scotchiest scotchs - if that makes any sense - so doesn't really prepare you for what's in store when you turn your taste buds upon further, more flavourful fields.

Highland Park, Oban and Laphroaig are popular because they are excellent, each leaders in their own area of scotchdom. Another one that I have been toting around the world and just recently opened is Glenlossie, which was a real nice surprise.

There are so many good ones out there, it is a shame I have but one liver to give.