Try a drink that dances on your tongue if you want to savor every last drop. That is the Paper Plane’s magic! This beautiful drink consists of lemon juice, bourbon, Aperol, and Amaro Nonino. A burst of flavor in a glass. It is enjoyable to make and serve, which is why bartenders enjoy it. It is ideal for something tasty and unique.
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Tasting Notes
The Paper Plane has a hint of herbal aromas and a sweet and sour combination. Its warm, smooth base is provided by the bourbon, while its bright orange hue and hint of sweetness are enhanced by the Aperol. Amaro Nonino balances the drink with a hint of bitterness and herbal notes. Ultimately, the zesty, fresh zing of lemon juice brings everything together. It is a pleasant trip through tastes with each sip.
Equipment and Glassware
To make a Paper Plane, you’ll need a few basic tools: a cocktail shaker, a strainer, and a measuring cup or jigger. For serving, a coupe glass is perfect. It’s a round, shallow glass that makes your Paper Plane look as good as it tastes. No need for fancy equipment; these simple tools do the job just fine.
Ingredients
- 3/4 oz. Bourbon
- 3/4 oz. Aperol
- 3/4 oz. Amaro Nonino
- 3/4 oz. Fresh lemon juice
These measurements make one drink, so everyone gets the perfect balance of flavors.
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 fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Shake the cocktail until the shaker feels cold. This makes sure your drink is perfectly chilled.
- No need to garnish; the drink’s vibrant color and flavor stand alone.
When to Serve
The Paper Plane is versatile. Serve it as an appetizer before dinner, or as a soothing after-dinner drink. It is ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or just treating yourself to something special.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Smoother bourbons, such as Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace, are ideal for the bourbon. Your best chance for the Aperol and Amaro Nonino is to stick with the namesake brands because they are essential to the drink’s distinct flavor. Selecting the appropriate brands is crucial for achieving the ideal taste.
Similar Cocktails
If you like the Paper Plane, you might also enjoy these cocktails:
- Negroni: A classic mix of gin, vermouth, and Campari.
- Aperol Spritz: A refreshing blend of Aperol, prosecco, and soda water.
- Boulevardier: A bourbon-based cousin of the Negroni with a deep flavor.
- Whiskey Sour: A simple, sour bourbon drink with a hint of sweetness.
- Amaretto Sour: A sweet and sour mix with the almond flavor of amaretto.
History
Sam Ross, a bartender, invented The Paper Plane in 2007. He was inspired to create a novel drink that was both simple to make and tasty. The cocktail immediately became famous due to its unusual flavor combination and easy elegance. It is a modern classic that combines tradition with a twist.
Equipment
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.
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