Hanky Panky

The Hanky Panky is a sophisticated, “The Unforgettable” classic composed of Gin, Sweet Red Vermouth, and Fernet-Branca. It is a complex variation of the Sweet Martini or Martinez, celebrated for its unique medicinal bitterness and its historical status as one of the most famous cocktails created by a female bartender in the early 20th century.

Key Takeaways

• Alcoholic Base: London Dry Gin.
• Modifier Agent: Fernet-Branca (Italian Amaro).
• Flavor Profile: Bittersweet, herbal, and mentholated.
• Glassware: Chilled Cocktail (Coupe) glass.

History: Ada Coleman and The Savoy

The Hanky Panky was created in the early 1900s by Ada “Coley” Coleman at the American Bar in London’s Savoy Hotel.

The Charles Hawtrey Request

Ada Coleman was the first female head bartender at the Savoy. The drink was created for Sir Charles Hawtrey, a famous actor and regular at the bar. After a long day, Hawtrey asked for “something with a bit of a punch in it.” Upon tasting Coleman’s creation, he exclaimed, “By Jove! That is the real hanky-panky!”

Legacy of the “Coley”

The drink was later immortalized in Harry Craddock’s Savoy Cocktail Book (1930), ensuring its survival through the 20th century as a staple of sophisticated, herbal mixology.

Ingredient Analysis

The Foundation: Gin and Vermouth

The Hanky Panky begins as a 1:1 “Wet” Martini variation.

• London Dry Gin: Provides a crisp, juniper-forward backbone.
• Sweet Red Vermouth: Adds the necessary sugar and floral wine notes to bridge the gin to the amaro.

The Secret Weapon: Fernet-Branca

The addition of Fernet-Branca is what defines the Hanky Panky. Even a small amount (approx. 7.5ml) introduces powerful notes of myrrh, saffron, and chamomile, along with a distinct menthol finish that “grounds” the sweetness of the vermouth.

Preparation Mechanics

1. Stirring for Clarity: The Hanky Panky must be stirred with large ice cubes for at least 30 seconds. Stirring maintains the silky mouthfeel of the vermouth and ensures a crystal-clear appearance.
2. Temperature Objective: Aim for a serving temperature of approximately 32°F (0°C).
3. The Expression: Express an orange zest over the surface of the drink. The bright citrus oils are essential to contrast the deep, earthy bitterness of the Fernet-Branca.
4. The Garnish: Drop the zest into the glass or discard it, depending on the desired intensity of the citrus aroma.

Tasting Profile

The Hanky Panky leads with a rich, floral sweetness from the vermouth. This is immediately followed by the botanical punch of the gin and the cooling, medicinal complexity of the Fernet. The finish is remarkably long and bittersweet, with a lingering herbal dryness that makes it an exceptional aperitivo.