Hanky Panky

Ingredients

Instructions

A Hanky Panky is a classic cocktail known for its intriguing name and its rich, herbal flavor profile. Created by Ada "Coley" Coleman, the legendary head bartender of the American Bar at the Savoy Hotel in London, this cocktail combines gin and sweet vermouth with a dash of Fernet-Branca, an aromatic and bitter Italian amaro. The result is a cocktail that's both sophisticated and complex, with a balanced interplay of flavors.

To prepare the cocktail:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
2. Add the gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca to the mixing glass.
3. Stir the mixture gently using a bar spoon for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the stirred mixture into a chilled cocktail glass, such as a martini glass or a coupe.
5. Express an orange twist over the cocktail by holding the twist over the glass and giving it a quick, gentle twist to release the oils. Drop the twist into the drink or discard it, depending on your preference.

The Hanky Panky cocktail is celebrated for its unique and balanced flavor profile. The gin provides a botanical and juniper-forward base, while the sweet vermouth adds a rich and slightly sweet depth. The Fernet-Branca contributes herbal complexity and a touch of bitterness, which adds layers to the drink's taste.

The cocktail's name, "Hanky Panky," is said to have been coined by the cocktail creator, Ada "Coley" Coleman, who claimed the drink had a magical effect on one's mood.

The garnish of an orange twist enhances both the presentation and the aromatic allure of the drink. The Hanky Panky is a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate a well-crafted cocktail with a touch of mystery and a sophisticated blend of flavors.