RE: Johnie Black Review

Have you tried Chivas or Haig? In Crete for the last half a decade Haig has risen in popularity as a cheaper alternative to Chivas.
Generally you can taste the difference between the cheaper versions of each different brand — like Johnny black vs Johnny red (cheaper/harsher).
Canadian club and crown royal are good options, dunno how available they are by you.
Personally I like bourbon whiskeys, like Woodford reserve.