The Hanky Panky is a classic cocktail that dates back to the early 20th century. It was created by Ada Coleman, the head bartender at the Savoy Hotel in London, in the 1910s. She crafted this drink for actor Sir Charles Hawtrey, who, after tasting it, exclaimed, By Jove! That is the real hanky-panky! giving the cocktail its name.
This drink is a perfect balance of herbal bitterness and smooth sweetness, combining gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca, a bold Italian amaro. The result is a complex, slightly bitter, and aromatic cocktail, making it a favourite among classic cocktail enthusiasts.