re: Scotch and Whiskey Recommendation

If he's not a scotch drinker, avoid that completely. If he's not a bourbon drinker, you can introduce him to bourbon with a bottle of Elijah Craig Small Batch ($26). You can't go wrong with Elijah Craig, even if he already is a bourbon drinker. Total Wine is selling an Elijah Craig gift pack (still $26) that will be available for pick up in December. Order it online and pick it up when it comes in.
You're welcome.