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

  1. Pour in all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
  2. Shake vigorously for 20 seconds.
  3. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
  4. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Amaro Nonino is a bittersweet liqueur of Italian origin based on aged grappa infused with roots herbs. The first Amaro Nonino was created in 1992.

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.

Please note that the units field is an estimation, and will vary depending on the type and quantity of alcohol used. Please drink responsibly and legally.