Scotch is generally drier I would say (someone correct me if I'm wrong) but I much prefer it. Irish and American whiskies taste more like poorly made rum to me.
Start Speyside, which are a bit more approachable. My favourite is probably Singleton... Then move on to a Highland with a little more peat, my favourite being Dalwhinnie, then move onto a smokie island whisky - Talisker. If you want really hardcore, Laphroaig.