While being curious and open-minded, I mostly enjoy sherry-matured, smoky as well as wine-finished whiskies. Personally, I don't only attach importance to the taste of a whisky but also to its presentation, distillery policy and price - which is nevertheless not included in my rating system:

99 - 96: Exceptional
95 - 90: Outstanding
89 - 86: Highly recommended
85 - 83: Recommended
82 - 80: Enjoyable, but with deficiencies
79 - 76: Still ok, but not recommended
75 - 70: Deficient and/or poor quality
69 - 00: Prepare your coke

My favorite affordable whiskies probably are the Glendronach 21 and Talisker 18.