The Northern California Fly Fishing Board

Yes, single malt is much better than blended, Bruce. If you want something kind of smooth to start with, a 12-year-old Macallan won't break the bank. If you want something that is a little peatier, Laphroaig is great. On the other hand if you can find Black Maple Hill Bourbon that's pretty delicious and reasonably priced. Not recommending buying from BevMo (support your local fine liquor shop) but for reference:
http://www...tail.aspx?ProductID=1590
http://www...mp;N=0&ProductID=703
http://www...m/detail.asp?sku=1026880

And I bet Ed would sip a Scotch whiskey or bourbon if one were placed in his hand...