The history of the Hanky Panky cocktail is quite fascinating. It was created by Ada ‘Coley' Coleman, a true trailblazer in the bartending world. Coleman made history by becoming the first female head bartender at the prestigious Savoy Hotel in London.
Back in the early 1900s, it was quite rare to see women working behind the bar. However, Coleman broke through these gender barriers and proved that women could excel in the male-dominated world of bartending. Her talent and creativity led her to create some iconic cocktails, including the Hanky Panky.
The story behind the creation of the Hanky Panky is shrouded in mystery, adding an air of intrigue to this classic cocktail. It is said that the cocktail was created in response to a request from a famous actor, Charles Hawtrey. Legend has it that Hawtrey asked Coleman to make him a drink that would “wake me up and then f* me up.” And thus, the Hanky Panky was born.
The recipe for the Hanky Panky calls for equal parts gin and sweet vermouth, along with a few dashes of Fernet-Branca, a bitter herbal liqueur. This combination of ingredients creates a harmonious balance between sweetness and bitterness, making the cocktail both delightful and complex.
The use of Fernet-Branca in the Hanky Panky is what sets it apart from other sweet martinis. Fernet-Branca is a dark, bitter liqueur that originated in Italy and is known for its intense herbal flavors. It adds a distinctive bitterness and complexity to the cocktail, giving it a unique character.
The popularity of the Hanky Panky spread quickly, thanks in part to Coleman's fame as the head bartender at the Savoy. It became a favorite among hotel guests and patrons of the American Bar, where Coleman worked her magic. The cocktail's intriguing name and delicious taste made it a hit among the cocktail connoisseurs of the time.
Today, the Hanky Panky remains a beloved classic cocktail, cherished by bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts around the world. Its history is a testament to the skill, creativity, and determination of Ada ‘Coley' Coleman. Her legacy lives on through her iconic creations, and the Hanky Panky is a shining example of her talent.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and making the Hanky Panky cocktail. Its unique combination of flavors and the balance between sweetness and bitterness make it a truly enjoyable drink. It is a cocktail that never fails to impress and is a testament to the creativity and innovation of the bartending world.
The history of the Hanky Panky cocktail is a testament to the enduring power of women in the world of mixology. Ada ‘Coley' Coleman's contribution to the cocktail industry cannot be overstated, and the Hanky Panky stands as a testament to her talent and legacy.