The Hanky Panky is one of the great classic gin cocktails. Elegant, complex, and perfectly balanced, it sits somewhere between a Martini and a Manhattan. Sweet, bitter, herbal, and aromatic flavours combine to create a truly memorable drink.
The cocktail was created by Ada Coleman, better known as "Coley." She was one of the most influential bartenders of her era and worked at the famous American Bar within London's Savoy Hotel.
The story goes that actor Sir Charles Hawtrey requested a cocktail with a little more punch than his usual drink. Coleman responded by experimenting with a new ingredient called Fernet Branca.
When Hawtrey tasted the finished cocktail, he reportedly exclaimed, "By Jove! This is the real hanky panky!" The name remained, and a classic was born.
The secret lies in the Fernet Branca. This Italian amaro delivers remarkable depth and complexity. Its flavour is bitter, sweet, herbaceous, and gently spicy.
The spirit contains a closely guarded blend of botanicals. These include gentian, saffron, chamomile, bitter orange, herbs, and spices. Each ingredient is macerated separately before blending and ageing in oak barrels for twelve months.
Combined with gin and sweet vermouth, Fernet Branca transforms the cocktail. It adds intrigue, structure, and a lingering herbal finish that keeps you returning for another sip.
Ease of Making: Easy.
Glass Type: Coupe or Nick & Nora.
Taste: Sweet, bitter and refreshing (can they be the same?).
Original Recipe:
- 45ml Explorer’s Gin.
- 45ml Sweet vermouth.
- 5ml Fernet Branca.
- Orange peel for the twist.
Method:
- Add the gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca in cocktail mixing glass.
- Fill the mixing glass with 1 handful ice.
- Stir continuously for 30 seconds.
- Strain into a glass. Garnish with an orange twist and serve.
Variations:
- Increase the Fernet Branca to 7ml.
- Add 2ml of fresh orange juice.
- Switch the orange twist for a Luxardo cherry.
