The Paper Plane Cocktail: A Modern Classic to Master
Discover the ingredients, history, and step-by-step method to master the perfectly balanced Paper Plane cocktail at home.
Paper Plane Cocktail: The Modern Bourbon Masterpiece
The Paper Plane cocktail is celebrated for its striking balance of sweetness, bitterness, and citrus brightness. Made with equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice, this modern classic delights bartenders and home enthusiasts with its vibrant hue, smooth sip, and sophisticated flavor complexity. Whether you’re expanding your home bar repertoire or seeking a new signature drink, the Paper Plane is a compelling addition with a fascinating backstory and rewarding results.
In This Article
- History of the Paper Plane
- Essential Ingredients
- Tasting Notes & Flavor Profile
- Step-by-Step Recipe & Method
- Barware & Serving Tips
- Variations & Ingredient Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Story Behind the Paper Plane Cocktail
The Paper Plane is a relatively recent addition to the world of cocktails. It was created in 2008 by Sam Ross, a notable New York City bartender recognized for his creative prowess. Sam crafted the drink for the opening of The Violet Hour, a renowned cocktail bar in Chicago. With inspiration drawn from the equal-parts structure of the classic The Last Word cocktail, Ross swapped its gin and herbal notes for bourbon’s warmth, the bittersweet botanicals of Aperol, the complexity of Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon’s zesty punch.
Sam Ross named the cocktail after the hit track “Paper Planes” by M.I.A., which was prevalent during the summer of its invention. Since then, the Paper Plane has claimed its status as a modern classic, found on cocktail menus around the world.
Essential Ingredients in the Paper Plane
What sets the Paper Plane apart is its harmonious use of four simple, iconic ingredients in equal measures. The combination delivers a multifaceted drink that’s delightfully balanced and easy to remember.
- Bourbon: Offers sweetness, subtle spice, and a comforting warmth. Its oaky and vanilla notes create the cocktail’s robust backbone.
- Aperol: An Italian aperitif, Aperol brings a bright orange color and introduces light bitterness with citrus and herbal complexity. Its gentle touch ties the drink’s flavors together without overpowering the mix.
- Amaro Nonino: This unique Italian amaro infuses the drink with bittersweet, herbal, and complex flavors—notes of orange peel, spices, and Alpine botanicals abound. Amaro Nonino’s delicate sweetness and sophistication round out the experience.
- Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed): Provides crisp, tart acidity that lifts and balances the boozy, bittersweet qualities of the spirits. Always use freshly squeezed juice for best results.
All four ingredients are combined in equal parts, making the recipe not only balanced but also easy to scale up or down according to your needs.
Standard Paper Plane Measurements
| Ingredient | Original (per serving) | Alternate (per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Bourbon | 0.75 oz | 1 oz |
| Aperol | 0.75 oz | 1 oz |
| Amaro Nonino | 0.75 oz | 1 oz |
| Lemon Juice (fresh) | 0.75 oz | 1 oz |
While the classic recipe uses 0.75 oz (or 3/4 oz) of each ingredient, some variations scale this up to 1 oz for a slightly larger pour without compromising balance. The key is to maintain equal proportions.
Tasting Notes & Flavor Profile
The Paper Plane sits comfortably in the “sour” cocktail family, with the addition of liqueurs lending layered complexity. Here’s what to expect with every sip:
- Appearance: Vibrant orange-pink hue, served neat and often garnished with a playful paper plane or citrus twist.
- Aroma: Fresh citrus mingles with bourbon’s vanilla and subtle herbal notes from Amaro Nonino and Aperol.
- Palate: A harmonious interplay of sweet, sour, bitter, and herbal elements. The cocktail opens with lemon’s brightness and bourbon’s richness, transitions to Aperol’s bittersweet orange and Amaro Nonino’s subtle spice, then resolves in a clean, slightly warming finish.
The result is a cocktail that’s simultaneously citrusy, botanical, and warming, delivering the ideal balance for both newcomers and connoisseurs.
How to Make the Perfect Paper Plane Cocktail
The Paper Plane is a straightforward drink to shake up at home. Its simplicity makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned mixologists.
Ingredients
- 0.75 oz bourbon (adjust to 1 oz for a larger drink)
- 0.75 oz Aperol (or 1 oz as preferred)
- 0.75 oz Amaro Nonino (or 1 oz as preferred)
- 0.75 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice (or 1 oz as preferred)
- Ice cubes
- For garnish: tiny paper airplane or orange twist (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Cocktail shaker
- Coupe glass (chilled is best)
- Fine strainer (for extra smooth pour)
- Jigger
- Gold cocktail pick (if adding a decorative garnish)
Step-by-Step Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
- Measure and pour in equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice using your jigger.
- Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
- Double strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass to ensure a smooth, seed-free cocktail.
- Garnish with a tiny paper airplane or a twist of orange peel to elevate presentation and aroma.
Tip: Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest, most balanced finish.
Barware, Serving, and Pro Presentation
- Glassware: The classic Paper Plane is best served in a coupe glass, which offers elegance and allows aromas to blossom.
- Chill before pouring: Pre-chill your coupe glass in the freezer for several minutes; a cold glass keeps the cocktail crisp and invigorating.
- Garnish: A fun paper airplane garnish on a cocktail pick adds whimsical flair. Alternatively, an orange or lemon twist provides a fragrant, colorful finish.
- Batching: Planning for a party? You can batch the ingredients ahead of time and shake individual portions to serve each drink perfectly chilled.
Variations & Ingredient Substitutions
While the original Paper Plane is tough to surpass in balance, adventurous mixologists may want to experiment. Below are some variations and tips for those looking to put a twist on the classic recipe:
- Bourbon choices: Opt for a mid-range bourbon that’s not overly oaky, as a heavy-handed bourbon risks overpowering the subtler elements.
- Aperol substitute: Some may ask if Campari can replace Aperol for a bolder bitterness, but the original Paper Plane calls strictly for Aperol. Campari offers a stronger, more bitter profile, so substitutions will impact the cocktail’s intended balance.
- Other amaros: If Amaro Nonino is unavailable, consider other lighter Italian amaros, but note that Amaro Nonino’s floral, honeyed character is central to the drink’s complexity. Substituting with a more bitter amaro may change the drink’s spirit.
- Lemon: No substitute for fresh citrus! Bottled juice falls flat—freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for vibrancy.
Compare: Paper Plane vs. The Last Word
| Ingredient | Paper Plane Cocktail | The Last Word |
|---|---|---|
| Base Spirit | Bourbon | Gin |
| Aperitif/Liqueur | Aperol, Amaro Nonino | Green Chartreuse, Maraschino Liqueur |
| Citrus | Lemon Juice | Lime Juice |
| Balance | Sweet, Bitter, Herbal, Citrus, Warm | Sweet, Herbal, Tart |
The Last Word inspired the Paper Plane with its equal parts formula but differs in base spirit and flavor profile, making both cocktails unique experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is in a Paper Plane cocktail?
A Paper Plane uses equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Is the Paper Plane a strong cocktail?
Yes, the Paper Plane is considered spirit-forward due to equal portions of distilled spirits, delivering a boozy yet balanced drinking experience.
Can I use Campari instead of Aperol in a Paper Plane?
The original Paper Plane is defined by Aperol’s gentle bitterness; substituting with Campari makes for a bolder, more intensely bitter drink and departs from the original’s intended balance.
What kind of bourbon works best?
Choose a mid-proof bourbon with a well-rounded, slightly sweet profile. Avoid overly smoky or high-proof bottles, which may dominate the drink’s subtleties.
How can I garnish the Paper Plane?
Popular garnishes include a miniature paper airplane (crafted from paper and placed with a cocktail pick) or an orange twist for a classic touch of aroma and color.
What is the origin of the name?
The drink was named after the song “Paper Planes” by artist M.I.A., which was a hit during the cocktail’s creation in 2008.
Free Recipe Guide: Top 25 Cocktails
Want to elevate your home bartending skills? Download our FREE recipe guide featuring the best and most popular cocktails of all time. Perfect your Paper Plane and explore new classics!
Try These Related Cocktails
- Negroni – Another bittersweet Italian-inspired classic for aperitivo hour.
- Espresso Martini – For those who want a caffeinated, velvety nightcap.
- Bee’s Knees – A delightful blend of gin, lemon, and honey with a floral twist.
- Boulevardier – A whiskey lover’s take on the Negroni, with bourbon at the fore.
- Aviation – Gin, maraschino, crème de violette, and lemon, offering floral and tart notes.
Embrace the art of craft cocktails at home—start with the Paper Plane, then explore other creative classics to brighten your next gathering or quiet evening in.
