Paper Plane Cocktail recipe
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Paper Plane is a modern equal-parts bourbon sour that sits right in the sweet spot between bright, bitter, and boozy. You’ll find it’s a contemporary classic in the “new wave” of cocktails that lean on amaro for complexity without losing approachability, and its simple, balanced build helps explain why it shows up so often on menus when you want something both playful and serious.
On the palate, bourbon brings a warm, rounded backbone that the lemon juice immediately lifts with clean, sharp acidity. Aperol adds a gentle orange-leaning bitterness and a soft sweetness that keeps the citrus from feeling too austere, while the amaro deepens everything with a darker, more herbal bitterness. Because all four ingredients share equal weight, you get a tight, seamless interplay: tart lemon up front, bittersweet orange through the middle, and a lingering amaro finish over bourbon’s richness.
Serve it in a cocktail glass when you’re in the mood for something crisp yet layered—ideal as an aperitif, or whenever you’d normally reach for a whiskey sour but want more bite and complexity. It’s a great pick for bourbon drinkers curious about amaro, and for bitter-citrus fans who still want a satisfying, spirit-forward core.
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Cocktail Colin says:
Bourbon leads with warm grain and vanilla, quickly met by Aperol’s orange-tinged sweetness, Amaro’s herbal bitterness, and a sharp, clean snap of lemon juice that keeps the sip bright and brisk. The equal parts balance lets lemon lift the bourbon while Aperol softens the Amaro’s edge, making it ideal for sour lovers who want bittersweet complexity without losing a clear, boozy core.
Method
How to make a Paper Plane
- Bourbon 22.5ml, Aperol 22.5ml, Amaro 22.5ml, Lemon juice 22.5ml
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- Begin by adding all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice
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- 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
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- 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
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- This method gives your cocktail a smooth texture
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- Enjoy your perfectly chilled beverage right away for the best taste
Power tips
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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.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail
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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.
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