About the Hanky Panky cocktail

The Hanky Panky is a true gem from the early 20th century, created by Ada “Coley” Coleman, head bartender at London’s Savoy Hotel.

Coleman, one of the first famous female bartenders, crafted the drink for actor Sir Charles Hawtrey sometime around 1903. After tasting it, he reportedly exclaimed, “By Jove! That is the real hanky-panky!” — giving the cocktail its name.

A variation on the sweet martini, the Hanky Panky adds a splash of Fernet-Branca, giving it an herbal bitterness that sets it apart from its gentler cousins.

What Makes the Hanky Panky Cocktail Special

The Hanky Panky cocktail recipe is rich, complex, and bracingly bittersweet.

Equal parts gin and sweet vermouth form the silky base, while just a bar spoon of Fernet-Branca adds layers of herbal intensity.

The drink is stirred, not shaken, yielding a smooth, velvety texture that lingers on the palate.

It’s a cocktail for those who appreciate bold flavors — the perfect bridge between the approachable sweetness of a Manhattan and the sharp, aromatic bite of a Negroni.

Spirit Swaps and Food Pairings

The Hanky Panky can take on subtle shifts depending on your ingredients:

• Swap London Dry gin for Old Tom gin for a slightly sweeter, rounder version

• Try Carpano Antica or Punt e Mes vermouth for more depth

• Add an orange twist garnish to bring out brighter citrus notes

Food-wise, its bitter-herbal profile pairs beautifully with rich charcuterie, sharp cheeses, or even dark chocolate desserts. It’s also a great pre-dinner drink that awakens the appetite.

Why It Still Captivates

The Hanky Panky is more than a cocktail — it’s history in a glass.

As Ada Coleman’s most famous creation, it remains a shining example of balance and innovation in early 20th-century mixology.

Over a century later, it’s still winning over cocktail fans who crave complexity and character.