Hanky Panky

A sweet Martini and dash of bitters that's just the hanky panky.

Hanky Panky Cocktail Recipe

Ada “Coley” Coleman—who preceded legendary bartender Harry Craddock at the Savoy Hotel—had, like any great bartender, a following of devoted regulars. One of them, English stage actor Sir Charles Hawtrey, often came in following a long day requesting “something with a bit of a punch.” On one occasion, Coleman responded with a sweet Martini livened with a splash of Fernet Branca (a bitter Italian amaro), which Hawtrey called, “the real hanky-panky.” To this day, the drink remains Coleman’s most famous invention.

Ingredients

Serving: 1

  • 1 1/2 ounces gin
  • 1 1/2 ounces gin
  • 1 1/2 ounces sweet vermouth
  • 1 1/2 ounces sweet vermouth
  • 1 bar spoon Fernet Branca
  • 1 bar spoon Fernet Branca

Garnish: orange peel

Directions
  1. Add all ingredients to a mixing glass.
  2. Add ice and stir until chilled.
  3. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
  4. Garnish with an orange peel.