Obviously you are a person of good taste.
I like the smokey flavor, but to me many scotches are too "sharp". Some American bourbons and whiskeys are good, but many (like JD) are very over-rated. IMHO, rye is just about perfect.
American rye whiskey - a primer:
American Rye Whiskey: A Primer | The Whiskey Reviewer
Some people may cast aspersions, but I still like Old Overholt rye.
Old Overholt Rye Whiskey Review | The Whiskey Reviewer