Witchy sips and barmaid tricks:
how Fernet and flair birthed a classic at The Savoy
It’s early 1900s London, and a fatigued comedic actor named Sir Charles Hawtrey walks into a bar. No, this is not the start to an overused joke—it’s the start to the Hanky Panky cocktail. The bar Hawtrey walked into was The American Bar at The Savoy, where he asked the barmaid for “something with a punch”. Ada “Coley” Coleman mixed a new beverage she was working on and passed it to her eager patron. Story has it that Hawtrey took one sip and exclaimed:
“By Jove, that’s the real Hanky Panky!”
The name stuck, and the rest is Hanky Panky cocktail history.
Ada Coleman and The Savoy
Contrary to popular belief, it was common for women to tend bars in the early 20th century—but few barmaids were as famous as Coleman. Thanks to her big talent and personality, Coleman became the first female head bartender at the Savoy’s American Bar, one of the most famous bars in the world. Coleman held the position from 1903 until 1926, during which time she is rumored to have served some of the most famous figures of the day, such as:
- Mark Twain
- Marlene Dietrich
- Charlie Chaplin
- Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII)
- American millionaire “Diamond” Jim Brady
During her tenure at the American Bar, Coleman mentored her successor Harry Craddock, who later authored the legendary Savoy Cocktail Book. While Craddock is often remembered as the cocktail authority, it’s Coleman’s legacy that laid the foundation for the modern classic hotel bar.
During her tenure at the American Bar, Coleman mentored her successor Harry Craddock, who later authored the legendary Savoy Cocktail Book. While Craddock is often remembered as the cocktail authority, it’s Coleman’s legacy that laid the foundation for the modern classic hotel bar.
Tips for mixing the best Hanky Panky
It’s important to choose the right gin (for something softer, try Altamura), as well as a high-quality vermouth. Also:
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Don’t overdo it on the Fernet
Like summer in a glass, this is the playful cousin to the original mimosa. Blend fresh strawberries with orange juice before assembling. Strain as desired. Garnish with fresh fruit, such as a whole strawberry or an orange slice.
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Stir, don’t shake
To achieve the elegance of a Bellini but the citrus sparkle of orange juice, try a peach mimosa. Whisk peach nectar with the orange juice before assembling. Garnish with a slice of fresh peach.
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The orange twist is essential
For a tart yet festive version of the original mimosa that’s perfect for the winter holidays, replace the orange juice with cranberry juice. Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.
The Hanky Panky recipe
Coleman essentially served Hawtrey a variation of a Sweet Martini, but the addition of Fernet-Branca, a bitter Italian amaro, added a layer of complexity.
Hanky Panky Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz London dry gin
- 1.5 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Fernet-Branca
Directions
- Combine ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir until well-chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
Our favorite twist on the Hanky Panky
We enjoy Erik Lorincz’s take on the Hanky Panky, which he calls the Green Park Hanky Panky. Lorincz lightens the drink by using dry vermouth instead of sweet, adds freshness with basil, and retains the core bitterness from Fernet. The result is a more herbaceous and summery interpretation of the classic.
Green Park Hanky Panky
- 1.5 oz London dry gin
- 1.5 oz dry vermouth (instead of sweet vermouth)
- 2 dashes Fernet-Branca
- 3 fresh basil leaves
- Few drops of orange bitters (optional)
Mixologist
Fun fact about the Hanky Panky
While “hanky panky” had a more lascivious connotation in America, it referred to “a bit of trickery” or witchcraft in England. Hawtrey’s famous exclamation about the Hanky Panky can be roughly translated to mean: “That’s some real witchcraft!”
Nicole Bump
Nicole is a seasoned content strategist and writer with 15+ years of experience turning complex ideas into compelling stories. As founder of Bump Inbound, she helps brands connect with audiences through thoughtful strategy, sharp planning, and standout writing.