The Blood and Sand Cocktail isn't everyone's cup of whisky. Here are a couple variations that might broaden its appeal: one with port and a big, peaty Scotch, the other a mezcal version.
Short and evil: the Devil’s Soul cocktail
The Devil's Soul cocktail: rye whiskey, smoky mezcal, two amaros, and a dollop of St. Germaine.
Tequila and mezcal — messing with the Negroni
Agavoni — the "Tequila Negroni" — tequila or mescal, sweet vermouth and Campari, with a dash of bitters.
Margarita — the Tequila Daisy
The “daisy” is a sour made with triple sec or orange curaçao instead of straight sugar. The Margarita is one of the most famous examples: white tequila, lime juice, Cointeau and sugar.