Re: 17yr old Scotch!!
How could I have missed this Thread?!
If your friend is not a Scotch drinker his preference will probably be determined what what he already likes, so you need to know what else it is that he likes to drink.
Malts take on the character of their enviromnent: the water, rock and soil of the region or area. They vary in sweetness, crispness, and assertiveness. One might want a light, dry malt with a fruity nose before dinner but a full-bodied, sweet one after the same meal.
The same make of Malt may evolve in strength and character depending on the type of wood in which it is aged. Older might mean smoother but it's not always better. The age on the label simply means that that number is the youngest whisky that's in the bottle. Some with a lower age statement contain whisky in the 12-18 year old range, but can't legally be sold as 18 year-old, yet are evey bit as good as their oversold dated companion blends.
The Lowlands tend to produce the softer malts. The Highlands produce round, firm, dry malts with some peaty flavor or earthiness. There's not much any more on the west coast. Islay is the region known for the salty, seaweedy, iodine-turpentine-like tangy brews.
Among the 18 year olds a Glenmorangie is a good medium-bodied sweet, smooth malt with an aromatic and nutty finish - It is quite well liked by non-Scotch drinkers.
The 12-year old Macallan is a staple, too, with a flowery nose, full body and well-rounded finish. Not many Bourbon drinkers dislike the Macallan 12.