The Paper Plane cocktail is a modern classic created by bartender Sam Ross in 2008. This refreshing, balanced drink is named after the M.I.A. song Paper Planes and has become a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts for its harmonious blend of flavors. Whether you're hosting a party or simply treating yourself, this cocktail is sure to impress!
Ingredients
Before we dive into the steps, here’s what you’ll need:
¾ oz bourbon
¾ oz Aperol
¾ oz Amaro Nonino
¾ oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
Ice (for shaking)
Lemon twist or dehydrated lemon slice (for garnish, optional)
Equipment
Cocktail shaker
Jigger (or a measuring tool)
Hawthorne strainer
Chilled coupe glass
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Tools and Ingredients
Ensure your coupe glass is chilled by placing it in the freezer or filling it with ice water for a few minutes. Measure out all your ingredients using a jigger for precise proportions.
2. Combine Ingredients in a Shaker
Add the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and freshly squeezed lemon juice into a cocktail shaker. Fill the shaker with ice to chill the mixture and help achieve proper dilution.
3. Shake It Up
Shake vigorously for about 10–15 seconds. This step ensures all the ingredients blend harmoniously and the cocktail is adequately chilled.
4. Strain Into the Glass
Remove the ice from your chilled coupe glass. Using a Hawthorne strainer, pour the cocktail into the glass, ensuring no ice chips make their way into your drink.
5. Garnish and Serve
For an optional finishing touch, garnish your Paper Plane with a lemon twist or a dehydrated lemon slice. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Paper Plane
Fresh lemon juice is key. Bottled juice won’t provide the same brightness and zing.
Chill your glassware. A cold glass helps maintain the drink’s temperature.
Experiment with bourbon. A smooth, well-rounded bourbon works best to complement the other ingredients.
Why the Paper Plane Cocktail Works
The beauty of the Paper Plane lies in its equal parts recipe. The bourbon provides warmth, the Aperol adds a subtle bitterness and sweetness, the Amaro Nonino contributes herbal complexity, and the lemon juice ties everything together with a refreshing citrusy tang. It’s a cocktail that feels sophisticated yet approachable—a surefire hit for any occasion.
Conclusion
The Paper Plane cocktail is a brilliant example of modern mixology at its finest. With its balanced flavors and stunning presentation, it's an easy way to elevate your cocktail repertoire. So why not give it a try and let this contemporary classic take flight at your next gathering?
Watch me make it here.
Cheers to mastering the Paper Plane! 🍸✈️
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