Advice needed: good sipping alcohol

I (51M) don’t drink often, usually only after a day of physical work, or celebrating an event. My go-to has always been a higher quality lager or pilsner beer. I do like beer and tbh, I do like getting at least a little beer buzz. But I hate getting filled up on beer and feeling full.

So as an alternative,I’m looking to acquire a taste for bourbon, or whiskey, or scotch, or anything along those lines (not interested in mixed drinks). Aside from just going out to buy a bunch of things and trying, can someone give me some pointers on types and brands to try?