The Hanky Panky Cocktail, despite its whimsical name, has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century.
Origins in London:
The Hanky Panky is credited to Ada Coleman, a renowned bartender at the American Bar in The Savoy hotel, London, during the early 1900s. It is said that the cocktail was created for Sir Charles Hawtrey, a popular actor of the time, who requested something with a little extra punch.
Ada Coleman, known for her ingenuity behind the bar, crafted the Hanky Panky, and it quickly gained fame for its unique blend of flavors.
First Mention in Print:
The first known mention of the Hanky Panky Cocktail in print appears in “ABC of Mixing Cocktails” by Harry Craddock, The Savoy’s head bartender after Ada Coleman. Published in 1922, the recipe for the Hanky Panky was included, immortalizing its place in cocktail history.
The Hanky Panky’s popularity endured over the decades, thanks to its distinctive combination of gin, sweet vermouth, and a hint of Fernet Branca.
Hanky Panky Cocktail Ingredients
- Gin (45 ml / 1.5 ounces): The foundation of the Hanky Panky is a quality gin, chosen for its botanical complexity.
- Sweet Vermouth (45 ml / 1.5 ounces): Sweet vermouth, with its herbal and slightly sweet notes.
- Fernet Branca (1 dash): Fernet Branca, a bitter and aromatic amaro, adds a touch of complexity and depth to the cocktail.
Hanky Panky Cocktail Recipe
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Ingredients
- Before you start, ensure you have the necessary tools: a mixing glass, a barspoon for stirring, a strainer, and a chilled coupe glass. Also, have your gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet Branca ready.
Step 2: Measure and Add Gin
- In a mixing glass, measure 45 ml (1.5 ounces) of your chosen gin. Pour the gin into the mixing glass.Step 3: Add Sweet Vermouth
- Measure 45 ml (1.5 ounces) of sweet vermouth and add it to the mixing glass with the gin. The sweet vermouth contributes herbal and sweet notes that harmonize with the gin.
Step 4: Add a Dash of Fernet Branca
- Add just a dash of Fernet Branca to the mixing glass. The intensity of Fernet Branca means a little goes a long way.
Step 5: Fill with Ice and Stir
- Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir the ingredients gently for about 15-20 seconds. Stirring, rather than shaking.
Step 6: Strain into a Chilled Coupe Glass
- Strain the stirred mixture into a chilled coupe glass. The use of a chilled glass ensures the Hanky Panky is served at an optimal temperature.
Step 7: Express Orange Peel Over the Cocktail
- Take a fresh orange peel and express the citrus oils over the surface of the cocktail by giving it a gentle twist. Drop the peel into the glass for an added aromatic touch.
The Hanky Panky – A Delicious Treat
Harry Craddock, an American bartender who sought refuge in London during Prohibition, meticulously recorded the cocktails he served at the American Bar in the prestigious Savoy Hotel. His collection includes enduring favorites like the Pegu Club, which can still be found on menus in cocktail bars today.
Although the Savoy Hotel underwent a modern renovation in 2010, the historic bar remains largely unchanged, allowing patrons to savor the same iconic drinks enjoyed by luminaries of the past. Craddock’s legacy is not alone; he followed in the footsteps of Ada Coleman, affectionately known as “Coley,” who served esteemed clientele like Mark Twain and the Prince of Wales. Coleman’s signature creation, the Hanky Panky, is a delightful blend of gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca, crafted to satisfy the discerning palate of Sir Charles Hawtrey, an acclaimed actor and frequent patron.
The Hanky Panky, immortalized in Charles H. Baker Jr.’s “The Gentleman’s Companion” in 1939, stands as a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of Savoy’s esteemed bartenders, ensuring their legacy lives on in each perfectly mixed cocktail.
Heres to the art of making great cocktails and the timeless allure of the Hanky Panky!
