Sounds like he prefers a smooth style of whiskey. If you want to get him a different one but in the same style category then maybe you should consider Blantons. It'll run a few bucks more than the Basil Haydens but it's mighty darned good and it'll be the style he likes. If you want to get out for a bit less cash then go for an Eagle Rare 10yr single barrel. It's done in that smooth rounded style too.