Hanky Panky | Recipe and Lore | Alchemix | Cocktails

The Alchemist,

Ada ‘Coley’ Coleman

The Poison,

Fernet-Branca

2 Spritzes

Sweet Vermouth

1.5oz/45ml

Dry Gin

1.5oz/45ml

Glassware

Coupette

Garnish

Orange Twist

The Alchemy,

Spritz a Chilled Coupette twice with Fernet-Branca and place back in the freezer. In a mixing glass, add Sweet Vermouth and Gin. Stir over ice. Strain into the Fernet laced Coupette. Spritz the Cocktail with the Zest of an Orange and place into the glass for a Garnish. Serve or Imbibe.

The Lore,

Ada Coleman, predecessor of Harry Craddock at London’s Savoy Hotel, invented this cocktail for stage actor Sir Charles Hautrey. After the initial sip he declared it ‘The Hanky Panky’ and the name stuck. It was later published in ‘The Savoy Cocktail Book’ in 1930.

The Philosophy,

Like many great artists, Ada Coleman was constantly tweaking recipes. She developed a cult like following of regulars at The Savoy many of which she used as tasters for her new creations. One of which was the stage actor Sir Charles Hautrey, the regular who named this cocktail, later declared by Ada one of the greatest cocktail tasters to ever live.

The Era,

1920s. London. Prohibition in the States.

The Geology,

The American Bar. Inside the Savoy Hotel. London, UK.

The Essence,

Amaro(Fernet-Branca) only alters the flavor profile of this cocktail slightly. However, the Sweet Vermouth is the perfect vehicle to carry the potent flavor of Fernet. An equal parts match of Sweet Vermouth and Dry Gin balance sweet and dry with added herbal complexity from the Fernet.

Alchemix Assessment,

Booze Forward with a Fair Balance. A Historic Drink.

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