This Hanky Panky cocktail dates back to the early 1900s and is loved by cocktail aficionados. Invented by Ada “Coley” Coleman in London’s Savoy Hotel, it marries the botanical quality of gin with the sweetness of vermouth and the brash bitterness of Fernet-Branca. The even, balanced flavor makes it ideal as a ease in and is perfect for sipping before to dinner or at an evening get together. And, unlike many newer cocktails, the Hanky Panky highlights simplicity executed well. In this guide, you’ll discover exactly how to make the cocktail step by step, get a better understanding of its variations, find out about its history and learn serving best practices so that you can enjoy it at home.
Table of Contents
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
- London dry gin
- Sweet vermouth
- Fernet-Branca for herbal depth
- Ice cubes for chilling
- Orange peel for garnish
- Optional aromatic bitters for complexity
- Cocktail shaker or mixing glass
Essential Tools for Mixing
- Mixing glass or cocktail shaker
- Bar spoon for stirring
- Jigger for precise measurements
- Citrus peeler or knife
- Strainer for serving
- Chilled coupe or martini glass
- Measuring spoons for optional ingredients
Understanding the Hanky Panky
Its appeal is the simplicity, the perfect balance of that cocktail. The dryness of London dry gin provides a crisp, botanical foundation, while sweet vermouth imparts some subtle sweetness and complexity. The signature ingredient that distinguishes the Hanky Panky from any other gin cocktail is Fernet-Branca, the bitter Italian amaro. A few dashes adds a scent of an herbal quality that brings the drink to life. The blend is very Mad Men, yet doesn’t scream one note way or the other and offers a fine cocktail with depth. Garnishing with a curl of orange peel is aromatic and citrusy, which works well with the bitterness of Fernet. Know what you’re putting in there and you can mix up a well balanced cocktail every time.
Preparing Ingredients for the Cocktail
You get what you pay for, anyway. Opt for a London dry gin with accents of bright florals and botanicals for an ultra-clean finish. Choose fresh sweet vermouth that is well-kept; oxidized sweet vermouth can upset the balance. A little Fernet-Branca goes a long way in that it imparts depth without overpowering the drink. Fresh citrus is crucial to garnish, it adds scent and lifts the botanicals. Making ice ahead of time means you can chill without dilute. Following the precise measurements while assembling ingredients and tools in advance ensure a professional finish.
Hanky Panky Recipe Without the glitz and glam
here is my hi-low step-by-step method of making a hanky panky. Start with the mixing glass and ice to get it nice and cold. Add equal parts London dry gin and sweet vermouth, usually an ounce and a half apiece, then two dashes of Fernet-Branca. Gently stir for 20-30 seconds or until well-chilled. It is properly stirred, and the dilution is right, and the gin and vermouth are not mushy. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a chilled coupe or martini glass, making sure no ice shards make it into the glass. Twist an orange peel over the surface to express essential oils, then drop it into the glass as garnish. This creates a cussin’ easy-drinking, pretty looking cocktail with plenty of balanced flavors.
Variations and Enhancements
And while the classic recipe is basic and lovely, there are some creative twists you can take on it. Gin-to-vermouth ratio can be tailored to taste; more gin keeps botanicals in the forefront, more vermouth adds sweetness. Ease up on the Fernet-Branca for a less boozey drink. It’s enhanced and layered when aromatic bitters are thrown in. Some bartenders flame an orange peel for a touch of scent and visual interest. If you use a more floral or citrus-forward gin, the flavor will be slightly different. Playing with these little tweaks, we can customize, but never lose our way from the foundation of this classic cocktail.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
The Hanky Panky was conceived as an appetizer drink that would stimulate the appetite. It’s nice with light hors d’oeuvres, like olives, nuts or charcuterie. Its vegetal and bitter flavors are a nice counterpoint to rich or savory appetizers, such as smoked salmon or pâté. For something more casual, keep it on hand for cheese boards or snacks of finger foods. Serving in a chilled glass using good ice makes all the difference. Presentation is key; the coupe glass and an orange twist make it look really nice, and professional. This drink is great for small social gatherings, holidays or just a classic cocktail to savor after a long day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the perfect gin to use in a Hanky Panky?
Opt for London dry gin with fresh botanical flavors. Stay away from heavily flavoured or barrel-aged gins.
Can I make Hanky Panky in a larger batch?
Yes, but only if served over fresh ice and garnished, one drink at a time to preserve its integrity of flavor.
Is Fernet-Branca necessary?
Yes, it is the ingredient that makes this cocktail different from other gin-vermouth drinks.
Can I use dry vermouth instead of sweet?
This will produce a distinct flavor, bitter without the balance. Classic recipes use sweet vermouth.
What is the correct way to store vermouth and Fernet-Branca?
After opening, vermouth should be kept in the refrigerator. Fernet-Branca is shelf-stable.
The Hanky Panky, a smooth and sophisticated drink that treats the relationship of gin to vermouth as if it were a yo-yo, is perfectly serviceable. I over simmer it a bit, and that’s usually when the rice is less toothy and tastes good to me. It’s actually easy as hell, but will let everything in it shine if you let it start thanks to simplicity with respect to each ingredient inside of that pot, so they come together well. Pick the right ingredients, apply some technique and maybe even a few variations; you’ve got a handsome and delicious cocktail. Whether you are serving aperitif style, enjoying a casual get together with friends or just mixing one for yourself, this Hanky Panky is one of those timeless classics that anyone who calls themselves an enthusiast should have in their memory bank. With a bit of patience and attention to detail, you can recreate this iconic drink in your very own home and enjoy the rich history and diverse flavors that it entails.
