In an era when women rarely stepped behind the bar, one extraordinary bartender at The Savoy created a drink that would stand the test of time. The story starts with a regular's simple request for 'something different' and ends with a cocktail that changed history.
This drink recipe combines London Dry Gin and Sweet Vermouth in perfect harmony, with a few drops of Fernet-Branca adding depth and mystery to the mix. The herbal bite of Fernet cuts through the sweetness, creating a drink that's both bold and balanced.
In the glass, it shows off a rich amber color that catches the light beautifully. The aroma is a mix of juniper and herbs, with hints of mint and spice from the Fernet. Despite its strong spirit base, the drink remains smooth and very drinkable.
Best enjoyed in a chilled Nick and Nora Glass or Coupe Glass, it works perfectly as an aperitif. The complex flavor profile makes it a great choice for sophisticated cocktail hours or as a digestif after dinner. Its balanced nature means you can sip it year-round, though many prefer it in cooler months when its warming qualities shine through.
Officially recognized as part of the IBA list of approved cocktails under The Unforgettables category.
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A perfect mix of gin, vermouth and herbal mystery that revolutionized cocktail making
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Did you know that Hanky Panky...
featured in the 1922 film Blood and Sand, where Rudolph Valentino's character orders it at a high-society party
Who invented this cocktail
was crafted by Ada "Coley" Coleman, the first female head bartender at the American Bar at The Savoy Hotel in London around 1903. She created it for actor Sir Charles Hawtrey, who wanted something with a bit of punch
The origin and history of "Hanky Panky"
The Hanky Panky represents a groundbreaking moment in cocktail history. When Ada Coleman first mixed it at The Savoy, she wasn't just creating a new drink – she was breaking barriers as one of the first female bartenders at a top establishment.
The drink first appeared in print in Harry Craddock's famous Savoy Cocktail Book in 1930, which helped spread its popularity beyond London's high society. Craddock, who succeeded Coleman at the American Bar, made sure her creation lived on.
Through the decades, the Hanky Panky has remained a symbol of innovation in mixology. It was one of the first cocktails to use Fernet-Branca as a modifier, paving the way for the creative use of amaro in cocktails. Its enduring presence on the International Bartenders Association list of official cocktails proves its lasting impact on drink culture.
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Bartender Tips for making the perfect "Hanky Panky"
To make the perfect Hanky Panky, try these tips:
Stir gently with ice for at least 30 seconds to achieve the right dilution and temperature
The Fernet-Branca should be added with a light touch - just a few drops can transform the drink
Express an Orange Peel over the drink and run it around the rim for the perfect finish
Choose a quality London Dry Gin that can stand up to the Fernet-Branca
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"Hanky Panky" Variations
Switch Sweet Vermouth for Dry Vermouth to create a drier version called a Hanky Panky Blanc
Replace Fernet-Branca with Cynar for a lighter, more approachable bitterness
Add a dash of Orange Bitters to enhance the citrus notes
Use Aged Gin instead of London Dry for a richer flavor profile
A century after its creation, this pioneering cocktail continues to showcase how a dash of creativity and a bit of hanky panky can lead to something truly extraordinary.
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Current Comments: 2
Jackson S.
22 May 2024
Bittersweet and smooth. The sweet vermouth balances the strong gin nicely.
Aisha Palmer
16 May 2024
A classic with a twist. The Fernet Branca adds a unique bitterness that I didn't expect.
Leave a comment
All comments are moderated before appearing on the site and will be reviewed within 24 hours.
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Current Comments: 2