Paul Kushner
The Paper Plane is a modern classic cocktail that has earned a place in the hearts of bartenders and cocktail lovers alike. Created in the mid-2000s, it offers a perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and citrus flavors. Bourbon adds warmth and depth, Aperol brings bright bitterness, Amaro Nonino contributes herbal complexity, and lemon juice ties everything together with refreshing acidity. Served in a coupe glass, its beautiful amber-orange hue and smooth, harmonious flavor make it as visually appealing as it is satisfying to sip. This is a cocktail that’s simple to make yet refined enough for any occasion.
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Tasting Notes
The Paper Plane is a modern classic with a perfectly even balance of sweet, bitter, and citrus. Bourbon provides a warm, smooth backbone, while Aperol adds a light bitterness with notes of orange. Amaro Nonino introduces herbal complexity, offering subtle spice and depth. Fresh lemon juice cuts through with crisp acidity, tying all flavors together. The result is a drink that’s refreshing yet layered, with no single element overpowering the others. Served chilled in a coupe glass, it has a bright aroma and a clean, lingering finish that keeps you coming back for another sip.
Equipment and Glassware
Making a Paper Plane requires a few essentials. A quality cocktail shaker is key for properly blending and chilling the ingredients. A jigger ensures precise measurements so the equal-parts formula stays balanced. A fine mesh strainer or standard cocktail strainer is used to remove ice and achieve a smooth pour. A citrus juicer is helpful for extracting fresh lemon juice, which is critical for flavor. For serving, a chilled coupe glass is ideal, providing a touch of refinement while keeping the drink at the right temperature. Having fresh ice ready will make the shaking process more effective and consistent.
Ingredients
- 3/4 oz. Bourbon
- 3/4 oz. Aperol
- 3/4 oz. Amaro Nonino
- 3/4 oz. Fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Add the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice to your cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice, seal it tight, and shake it well for about 10 seconds. You’re mixing and chilling the drink to perfection.
- Strain the mixture into your coupe glass. This gets rid of the ice, leaving you with just the smooth cocktail.
- Enjoy your Paper Plane right away for the best taste.
Pro Tips
- Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for brightness.
- Chill your coupe glass before serving.
- Use clear, fresh ice for the best texture and dilution.
- Shake firmly but not excessively to avoid over-dilution.
- Stick to the equal-parts ratio for proper balance.
- Choose a bourbon with moderate proof for smoothness.
- Avoid pre-bottled lemon juice, as it affects flavor.
- Fine strain for a cleaner presentation.
- Keep Amaro Nonino refrigerated after opening to preserve flavor.
- Serve immediately while the cocktail is chilled.
When to Serve
The Paper Plane is perfect for both casual and special occasions. Its balanced flavor makes it approachable for newcomers to cocktails while still intriguing for seasoned drinkers. Serve it as a dinner party starter, at intimate gatherings, or during cocktail hour with friends. It works well year-round—its citrusy brightness feels refreshing in warmer months, while the bourbon’s warmth is comforting in cooler weather. Because it’s served in a coupe glass, it also works beautifully for events that call for a touch of polish. Its equal-parts recipe ensures consistent results, making it reliable for entertaining.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Bourbon
- Buffalo Trace
- Woodford Reserve
- Four Roses Small Batch
Aperol
- Aperol
Amaro Nonino
- Amaro Nonino Quintessentia
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 3/4 oz. bourbon
- 3/4 oz. Aperol
- 3/4 oz. Amaro Nonino
- 3/4 oz. Fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Add the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice into your cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice, seal it tight, and shake it well for about 10 seconds. You're mixing and chilling the drink to perfection.
- Strain the mixture into your coupe glass. This gets rid of the ice, leaving you with just the smooth cocktail.
- Enjoy your Paper Plane right away for the best taste.
Video
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- A well-chilled coupe glass keeps the drink crisp from first sip to last.
- Shake firmly but not excessively to maintain balance without over-dilution.
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