All scotches are "smokey" as the malt is smoked over peat fires. From there, there are 4 general geographical classifications with taste affectations:
Highland: floral; Speyside: peaty; Lowland: earthy; Islay (pronounced I-lah) very smokey, salty, hint of iodine.
Fine highlands: Highland Park, Glen Farclas, Glen Livet (a lilghter one), Balwinnie (I like the double wood)
FIne Speyside: GLen Fiddich (often called a highland, but...)
FIne Islay: Laphroigh, Lagavoulin
lowland and Welsh whiskeys are around but harder to find on a regular basis in this country.
Blends: most have a pronounced raw alcohol aftertaste as that's what they are blended with. However, a few are exceptional. Johnny Walker Black Label, Dewars White Lablel, Bells.
What is it with Chivas Regal? It is a quality product. It is a "sweet" not "smokey" scotch so if you don't like the smokiness, Chivas is for you. I don't order or buy Chivas, but if I am served it I always find it to be a satisfying body and flavor. It is just not my usual taste.
Some stores stock a "classic malts" tasting box. 6 or 8 famous single malts (in small bottles) with the details all spelled out. Worth the price for the education.