If you are bored of drinking the basics Martinis, Old Fashioneds, Manhattans and other old standards, it’s time to go beyond the basics and try some historical cocktails. And when we talk about historical cocktails, there has to be with a memorable name. We are talking about the ‘Hanky Panky’. This cocktail not just have an interesting name but an interesting history.
If some legends are to be believed, this cocktail originated at the American Bar in London’s Savoy Hotel somewhere around 20th century. Originally created by a head bartender named Ada Coleman, this cocktail matches the character of Fernet Branca. During her tenure, Coleman made quite an impression with patrons, the media, and on cocktail canon itself with a special drink known as the Hanky Panky. As per a report published in London papers in the mid 1920s, London stage and silent film actor Sir Charles Hawtrey requested Coleman make a drink to cure what ailed him and, after “hours of experimenting and trying,” she developed a combination of London dry gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca. Hawtrey called it “the real hanky panky.” and this is how the cocktail got the name.
Most amazing thing about this cocktail is that it is as simple as it can be. It is one such delightful cocktail that will leave your taste buds tantalizing for sure. Thanks to Fernet-Branca that lends a bitter accent to the combination of sweet vermouth and gin. Wanna know how to make this fantastic cocktail at home? Just scroll down!!
Hanky Panky Cocktail
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces gin
- 1 1/2 ounces sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Fernet-Branca
- 1 dash orange juice
- Orange peel, for garnish
Method
- Take a mixing glass and fill it with ice. Pour in gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca.
- Add in a dash of orange juice. Stir well for around 30 seconds.
- Strain the drink into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with an orange peel and serve!