I need a Scotch reccomendation......

[i_shaved_something]

In the 40-50 range I'd go with Johnny Walker Green Label, will probably appeal to either a fan of blends or single-malts. It's a blend of single malts, with a middle of the road taste, will appeal to most any scotch fan on a blind buy with good probability.
Also, how much time will you have while he's doing the work, maybe strike up a conversation and bring up scotch and types he likes, then buy the bottle of what know likes.

[LarryDarrell]

Most scotch drinkers are insulted by blended scotches, including Johnnie Blue. If you got some cash, get him a bottle of Talisker 18 for $50. If you're broke, Glenlivet 12 for $25 is an excellent value and most scotch drinkers go to at bars.

I have to disagree with you there. Single Malt snobs are insulted by blends, those who actually know whisky appreciate good blends. JW Black contains a large proportion of Talisker (I agree with you there - an excellent single malt I would recommend to anyone) and is welcomed by almost all whisky drinkers.

If the OP wants to get a malt as gift, I have one question that I don't think has been considered so far: does the gentleman it is for smoke?

If no - then a Speyside malt is a good idea - Genlivet, Glenmorangie, MacCallan, Balvenie come to mind
If yes - than an Islay malt would be a better choice - Look for a name you can't pronounce and/or that starts with an 'L'.

Personally, I would go for Talisker 10y.o. or 18y.o. or for a bit less Highland Park 12y.o.

[barrycv]

If yes - than an Islay malt would be a better choice - Look for a name you can't pronounce and/or that starts with an 'L'.

Laphroaig is my personal fav scotch. Very peat-y.

[buffdaddy]

Most scotch drinkers are insulted by blended scotches, including Johnnie Blue. If you got some cash, get him a bottle of Talisker 18 for $50. If you're broke, Glenlivet 12 for $25 is an excellent value and most scotch drinkers go to at bars.

I'm not insulted by blended Scotch. I actually like JW, Chivas and some others. Why would you make that assumption?

[FL shaver]

Interesting. I'll have to try the JW Black. I passed on a bottle of Talisker 10 yr due to the $70 tag. Where can you find the 18 yr for $50?

[buffdaddy]

Interesting. I'll have to try the JW Black. I passed on a bottle of Talisker 10 yr due to the $70 tag. Where can you find the 18 yr for $50?

Cheapest I've seen it is around $80.00. But check around at some good Liqour stores, they have it on sale.

[biloxi123]

I would recommend getting him 2 bottles, a single malt and a blend, just to hedge your bets. Glenlivet 12 and Chivas Regal are pretty safe bets.