Paper Plane cocktail

The Paper Plane cocktail is composed of Bourbon whisky, Aperol, Amano Nonino and lemon juice mixed in equal parts. These ingredients combine to create a subtle taste between bitter, sour and herbal.
Amaro is an Italian herbal liqueur commonly consumed as an after-dinner drink. Amaro is the Italian word for bitter, and this liqueur has a strong bitter-sweet flavour.
The Paper Plane cocktail was created by a famous bartender of New York bar Milk and Honey – Sam Ross around 2007, The same bartender invented another famous cocktail – the Penicillin.
- Total Time:
- Type: Cocktail
- Units: 2
Equipment
- coupe glass
Ingredients
- 25 ml bourbon whisky
- 25 ml Aperol
- 25 ml Amaro Nonino
- 25 ml lemon juice
- lemon twist (to garnish)
Instructions
- Pour in all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 20 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
FAQ
What’s in a Paper Plane cocktail?
A Paper Plane contains equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro (usually Nonino), and fresh lemon juice.
Is it a modern or classic cocktail?
It’s a modern cocktail, created in 2007 by bartender Sam Ross. Despite being recent, it’s gained popularity for its balance and simplicity.
Can I substitute the amaro?
Yes, if you can’t find Amaro Nonino, alternatives like Montenegro or Averna can work, though they will slightly alter the flavour.
What does a Paper Plane taste like?
It’s bright, bittersweet, and citrusy. The Aperol adds fruit and bitterness, the amaro brings depth, and lemon balances it all.
Is it shaken or stirred?
It’s a citrus-based cocktail, so it should be shaken with ice and strained into a coupe glass.