Irish whiskey is my drink of choice, and I've got a decent collection at home. Here's what I think:
Regular Jameson is for beginners. Pretty harsh compared to the rest of the Irish whiskies.
Start with Powers, then try Bushmills. Then you'll want to try the Bushmills Black Bush, 10 year old, 16 year old and 21 year old. The Bushmills 400 anniversary 1608 is out now. Get a bottle before it's gone.
The Tyrconnell is excellent!
Knappogue Castle is nice if you can find it.
If you have a friend going through a duty free shop on an international flight, BEG THEM to get you a bottle of Paddy. You can't get that in the US and it's my personal favorite.
Tully is ok.
After you've tried all of them, you're ready to graduate to Midleton.
You should be able to get a Midleton 2008 bottle. 2009 should be out soon. Once you've gotten that far, you'll want a new one every year. I've got 2000-2008 so far.
After the Midleton, you'll want to start booking trips to Ireland to get the stuff you can't get in the US, like Locke's, Crested 10, Powers 12 and some of the distillery reserves you'll get on the distillery tours.
All the best, you'll love this hobby.
Whatever you do, enjoy in moderation and please don't drink & drive or ride.
