Paper PlaneCocktail recipe
Rating
Can you make this?
Add the ingredients you have at home to your My Bar and we'll show you what cocktails you can make. Start off by adding the ingredients you have for this cocktail using the plus icons.
The Paper Plane cocktail is a refreshing and balanced blend of Aperol, Amaro, Bourbon, and lemon juice, served in a cocktail glass. Created by bartender Sam Ross in 2007, this modern classic has a unique flavor profile that combines the herbal bitterness of Amaro and Aperol with the sweet, rich notes of Bourbon and the sharp, tangy essence of lemon juice.
Its intriguing mix of flavors makes it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts looking for something distinctively smooth yet daring. The Paper Plane offers a harmonious taste adventure, perfect for those who appreciate a cocktail with depth and sophistication.
Microbadges
Can you make this?
Add the ingredients you have at home to your My Bar and we'll show you what cocktails you can make. Start off by adding the ingredients you have for this cocktail using the plus icons.
Tags
Cocktail Colin says:
The Paper Plane is a marvel of balance and complexity, perfectly intertwining the bitter herbal notes of Aperol and Amaro with the smooth sweetness of bourbon, accentuated by a zesty punch of lemon juice. This cocktail is a true testament to sophistication, offering a layered taste experience that evolves with each sip, appealing to those who cherish depth and a modern twist in their drink selection.
Method
How to make a Paper Plane
- Aperol 22.5ml, Bourbon 22.5ml, Amaro 22.5ml, Lemon Juice 22.5ml
-
- Begin by adding all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice
-
- Vigorously shake the mixture for about 10 to 15 seconds, or until you notice the shaker's exterior has frosted over; this ensures your drink is well-chilled
-
- Once shaken, use a fine strainer to pour the mixture into a glass that's been pre-chilled, catching any unwanted ice chips or herb bits
-
- This method gives your cocktail a smooth texture
-
- Enjoy your perfectly chilled beverage right away for the best taste
Power tips
Elevate the Paper Plane with these master mixologist tips
Upgrade to premium
And receive world class tips on how to raise your cocktails to the next level.
Find out more- Use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled to bring in a brighter, more vibrant acidity that balances the bitter Amaro and Aperol perfectly.
- Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes before straining the drink into it. This helps maintain the Paper Plane’s refreshing chill longer.
- Upgrade to premium to receive even more power tips on this cocktail.
Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail
· Shake ·Your private tasting notes
Featured in
FAQ's
What is the origin story of the Paper Plane cocktail?
The Paper Plane cocktail was created by bartender Sam Ross in 2007 at the Little Branch bar in New York City. It was inspired by the song 'Paper Planes' by M.I.A. The cocktail quickly gained popularity for its balanced flavor profile and unique combination of ingredients.
How does the alcohol content of a Paper Plane compare to other cocktails?
With an alcohol content of 19%, the Paper Plane falls into the moderate strength category of cocktails. It is stronger than light, fruit-based cocktails but not as strong as cocktails like the Martini or Manhattan, which can have alcohol contents upwards of 30%. Its balanced alcohol content makes it a pleasant choice for those looking for a drink that is neither too strong nor too weak.
What kind of Bourbon works best in a Paper Plane?
For a Paper Plane, a medium-bodied Bourbon with a slightly sweet and spicy profile works best. This balances well with the bitterness of the Aperol and the complexity of the Amaro. Bourbons that are not overly oaky or high in proof are preferred to ensure the cocktail remains well-balanced.
Can the ingredients of a Paper Plane be modified for a variation?
Yes, variations of the Paper Plane can be created by modifying the ingredients slightly, though the original balance of the cocktail might be altered. For example, substituting Aperol with another bitter like Campari will create a different taste profile, potentially making it more bitter. Adjusting ingredient proportions or adding new elements should be done with care to maintain the cocktail's harmony.
What is the best occasion to serve a Paper Plane cocktail?
The Paper Plane is versatile and can suit many occasions. Its balanced, refreshing taste makes it perfect for summer parties or as a pre-dinner apéritif. The elegance of the cocktail also makes it a great choice for more formal gatherings or special occasions like anniversaries or celebratory toasts.
Upgrade your mixology
Become a member for free taking your cocktail making skills up to level 11. Or become a premium member to rise to cocktail greatness.
- Save your bar forever
- Access to our Cocktail Creator, allowing you to create your own wonderful concoctions.
- Access to Cocktail Colin; ask Cocktail Colin anything on an individual cocktail and he'll give you the answers you need.
- Create personalised cocktail menus for all your events, bars or parties
- Save cocktails to personalised 'Tried' and 'Want to try' lists
- Create and record tasting notes on cocktails
- Create lists of cocktails to share with friends and family
- A personalised MyBar URL, allowing you to share everything you can make with friends
- And much more ... (what to buy next, measurement choices, search personalisation...)
Have you tried our Wordpress Plugin?
Download our plugin and embed cocktail recipes directly onto your own site or blog.
Choose from our whole recipe database, or choose a specific cocktail made with a certain ingredient, and let us place a beautiful recipe on your own site.
Find out moreYou might also like
Discover this exquisite blend of cognac and spices
Lovelight
Cognac, Aperol, White vermouth, Cinnamon syrup, Chocolate bitters
Explore this elegant blend of Aperol and vermouth.
Milano Torino
Aperol, Red vermouth
Discover this vivid fusion of Aperol and gin.
Intro to Aperol
Gin, Aperol, Lemon Juice, Sugar / simple Syrup, Angostura Bitters
Dive into this refreshing gin, Lillet, and Aperol blend.
Summer Negroni
Gin, Aperol, Lillet Blanc
Create a cocktail
Choose a theme and some ingredients, give us some description and we'll create an amazing cocktail for you.
Register as a Premium Make Me a Cocktail community member and get access to an even more powerful creator.
Start creatingBuild your bar
Tell us what you have at home and we’ll find a delicious cocktail for you to make right now.
Register as a Make Me a Cocktail community member and we’ll save your ingredients list so you can come back to it at any time.
Create My Bar
Cocktail Colin
Your cocktail expert
Hi! I'm Cocktail Colin
Ask me anything about this cocktail - how to make it, substitutions, variations, or any other questions!
Become a member to access Cocktail Colin
Become a member (for free) to pick Cocktail Colin's cocktail filled brain on everything on this cocktail, from substitutions, if you can use what you have, to serving suggestions and more.
Become a member
Comments