Looking for a new cocktail to try out this weekend? Want to wind down with a fresh new drink? We’ve got you covered. Here’s what you should drink this weekend.
After picking up a bottle of Carpano Antica Formula this past week, it seemed eerily prescient that the Fernet-Branca Instagram account would share a recipe for a Hanky Panky. But, here we are. Making a Hanky Panky.
The Hanky Panky is a seriously simple mixed drink. It’s basically a martini that takes a serious left turn. Invented by bartender Ada “Coley” Coleman, this was a mainstay drink at the legendary London Savoy Hotel. Reportedly, Coleman crafted this drink in the early 1900s for actor Sir Charles Hawtrey, who asked for a drink with more punch. Thus, the bracing Hanky Panky was born.
Hanky Panky Ingredients
Gin – Considering the Hanky Panky is a slight variation on a martini, use whatever gin you’d typically use when making a martini. We’re particularly fond of Barr Hill Gin but Hendrick’s, Tanqueray, or Plymouth are all fine options, too.
Sweet Vermouth – As I alluded above, this cocktail should really be made with the O.G.: Carpano Antica Formula. This classic sweet red vermouth is complex, lush, and good enough to be enjoyed on its own. If you can’t find any, sub in Cocchi, Cinzano, or any other high quality sweet red vermouth you can find.
Fernet – Last but certainly not least is Fernet. The bold digestivo is, in my opinion, one of the best nightcaps on planet earth. And rarely makes its way into cocktails, but here it shines. Fernet-Branca is the obvious option for a Hanky Panky but if your local distillery makes a worthy fernet, consider giving it a go.
Hanky Panky Recipe
- Combine 1.5 ounces of gin, 1.5 ounces of sweet vermouth, and one barspoon of fernet in a mixing glass.
- Add ice and stir until well-chilled, about 20 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with an orange peel.
- Enjoy!
