spankmeister posted:

Because OP mentioned liking bourbon, oaky/spicy big flavors and even a little heat I would recommend against Macallan. Macallan has a great aroma (smell) but on the palate it always underdelivers. It's thin and lacking in flavor. As an introductory Scotch this wouldn't be so bad were it not for the price. Macallan is extremely overpriced. I think a bourbon drinker will be disappointed by the lack of flavor and body. By all means try a sample but I recommend against buying a full bottle.

Something I would suggest trying is Kilkerran 12, it's got the big oaky flavors, and is generally well regarded by experienced drinkers and newcomers alike. Does have a wisp of smoke but nothing to worry about I think. Production and thus availability is somewhat limited but recently that settled down a bit I think. You'll be hunting a little or paying a bit over MSRP but that's nothing new for bourbon drinkers right?

Another good option is Arran 10. It has a bit more character from the distillate than from the casks, so it tends a bit more fruity than oaky, but it's well balanced and rich in flavor. Also one that's liked by new and experienced drinkers alike. This one is readily available and very affordable. Cheap even.

If you like oaky flavors the Loch Lomond 18 is one of the best value 18 year olds on the market. It's got fruity notes without leaning too much into sherry and it's got oak for days.

For a more sherry-forward whisky, one that's got that european oak spice but is well balanced the Speyburn 15 is an excellent choice that's still a bit under the radar. Doesn't have a lot of the bourbon vanilla's but goes more towards the baking spices, walnuts, dried fruit, etc.
The 18 is good too and leans a bit more into the oak spice and I really like it too but it's hard for me to say that it's actually better than the 15.

Okay that's enough for now I think. Hope this helps! It's nice to make recommendations for someone in Europe finally, since I know pricing and availability a lot better. One last piece of advice is that I would recommend finding a local specialist shop that knows their business, and have a chat with them. Go to some tastings. Find out what you like!