The Paper Plane cocktail is a modern classic known for its zesty flavors and interesting blend of ingredients.
Despite its popularity among the cocktail scene, the Paper Plane is a recent creation, not an age-old classic. It was first poured in 2008 by Sam Ross, a well-known bartender and co-owner of Attaboy and Diamond Reef in New York City.
The Paper Plane is a twist on the Last Word, a well-known cocktail that combines equal parts of gin, lime, maraschino liqueur, and green Chartreuse. While at first, the bourbon-infused Paper Plane might seem quite different, it actually shares the Last Word’s basic structure.
It is made with equal parts bourbon, Amaro Nonino, Aperol, and lemon juice. Both cocktails are lauded for their exquisite balance of bitter, sour, and herbal flavors.
Paper Plane Ingredients
- 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) Bourbon: Bourbon serves as the heart of the cocktail, providing smoky, woody, and caramel notes.
- 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) Amaro Nonino: Amaro Nonino adds fruity, herbal, and slightly bitter flavors.
- 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) Aperol: Aperol provides bittersweet orange and herbal notes, adding a touch of complexity.
- 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds zesty brightness and balances the drink’s flavors.
- Ice Cubes: For chilling and diluting the cocktail.
Paper Plane Recipe
Step 1: Start with a clean and chilled coupe or Martini glass.
Step 2: In a cocktail shaker, combine 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) of bourbon, 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) of Amaro Nonino, 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) of Aperol, and 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) of fresh lemon juice.
Step 3: Fill the shaker with ice cubes to chill the mixture.
Step 4: Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring the ingredients are well-mixed and the cocktail is properly chilled.
Step 5: Strain the cocktail from the shaker into the chilled coupe or martini glass.
Step 6: Optionally, garnish the drink with a lemon twist by peeling a strip of lemon zest and expressing the oils over the cocktail’s surface.
Whether you enjoy it as per the recipe above or add your personal touch, the perfect Paper Plane is a cocktail that anybody can enjoy.
Check out some more bourbon cocktails and give that bottle in the cupboard a bit of a workout.
