Yamazaki 12 is great single malt. A nice sweetness, similar to a Highland Scotch. 5 years ago I was getting it for $55/bottle. Then the secret got out.
Hakushu 12 is anoher good single malt. Gently smoky. Clean finish
Hibiki Harmony is also very good blended whisky. Its a blend of Japanese malt and grain whiskies from Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita. It focuses on focuses on the malt from Yamazaki.
All 3 are made by Suntory Whiskey.
Recommendation: Suntory Whisky Toki is what I have been drinking a lot of lately. It is also a blend of Japanese malt and grain whiskies from Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita. But this one highlights the Hakushu malt, aged in American oak, so it has a little more smoke, but nothing overpowering, and still has some sweetness and a bit of spice. It goes for $36/bottle around here, and makes a great pairing with a cigar! A terrific value for a blend of this caliper.
And for something sweeter, more like an Irish Whisky, try Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky. A nice, viscous mouth feel that coats your tongue. About $55 here. This one does not pair well with cigars, though.