Whiskey refers only to Scotch or Irish whiskeys while "whisky" is the stuff distilled in Kentucky and Tennessee as a barrell-prep for truly great whiskeys.

My favorites are: Lagavulin 16, smooth, rich, peatty goodness with lots of smoke, hints of sea salt and great earthy essences. Ardbeg 10, a veritable smokehouse of a scotch. This is a peat monster with a loooooooonnnnng and lasting finish. Dalwhinnie, wonderful high notes, crisp, clean ethereal stuff. And MacAllan 18.... Oh, this one is round, sweet, complex stuff that is very easy on the palate for novices and Scotch aficionados alike.