Which bitter herbal liqueur is added to a classic Hanky Panky cocktail?

Fernet-Branca is the bitter herbal liqueur added to a classic Hanky Panky cocktail.

The recipe combines gin and sweet vermouth with a small measure of Fernet-Branca. This Italian amaro contributes intense herbal, bitter and menthol-like notes, so it is used sparingly rather than as the drink’s main volume.

The Hanky Panky was created by Ada Coleman at the American Bar of London’s Savoy Hotel. Coleman developed it for actor Charles Hawtrey, and the cocktail became one of the best-known drinks associated with her career.

Fernet-Branca is often mistaken for Campari because both are bitter Italian products, but they have different flavor profiles and uses. Campari is a bright red aperitif central to drinks such as the Negroni; Fernet-Branca is darker, more intensely herbal and traditionally used in much smaller quantities here.