Hanky Panky Cocktail

In 1903, at the illustrious Savoy Hotel in London, Ada “Coley” Coleman, the head bartender, crafted the iconic Hanky Panky cocktail which includes gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca.

Legend has it that the Hanky Panky cocktail was born out of a moment of inspiration, crafted for none other than Sir Charles Hawtrey, a celebrated actor of the time and a regular patron at the Savoy Hotel.

Ada Coleman, fondly known as “Coley,” was not merely a bartender, she was a trailblazer in the world of mixology. Born in 1875, Coleman entered the hospitality industry at a time when the art of cocktail-making was evolving into a refined craft. The Savoy Hotel, a beacon of luxury and opulence in London, became her playground, and she took the helm as the head bartender in the early 20th century.

It was in this prestigious setting that Coleman’s creative genius found expression. She was known for her exceptional palate, keen sense of balance, and a commitment to delivering an unparalleled drinking experience. Coleman was not only a skilled mixologist but also a trendsetter, breaking gender norms in a profession predominantly occupied by men during that era.

The recipe for the Hanky Panky cocktail was a well-guarded secret until it gained popularity and eventually found its way into the pages of one of the most influential cocktail books in history – “The Savoy Cocktail Book”.