I may be new to pipes but you're talking my language when it comes to booze, and spirits moreso (in fact I would love to own a distillery some day). I'm not really a fan of Irish or American but I adore Scottish single malts. I've got a few go-tos such as Aberlour A'bunadh (stunning value for money, bottled at around 60%), Springbank, Bowmore and Glenfarclas but I'm open to trying new things. The Japanese seem to have a real skill for whisky too - their malts are like highly polished Scotch... too perfect for some. But Yamazaki 18 is one of my all time favourites.
Any UK based Scotch fans should check out the dream drams website if they've not done so already as they offer some fantastic bargains such as a 21 y.o. cask strength Tomintoul (tasty stuff!)
I'm also a big lover of rum, my favorites being Bristol Classics Port Morant 1991, Trois Rivieres single cask, Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva and Ron Zacapa. And the dearly departed Pyrat Planter's Gold =(
As my next point is so important I've saved it for last. I noticed someone else has recently experienced the joy of Ardbeg. I suggest that everyone go out and do the same. That distillery has changed my life with its offerings of big, complex and well balanced flavour. I'd recommend the Uigeadail as the next step up from 10, but if you can afford it, plough through their other bottlings - you won't be disappointed!