Paper Planes

August 25, 2023

The Paper Plane cocktail is a modern classic that exudes a vibrant and invigorating energy. With a brilliant amber hue, this equal-parts blend of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice creates a harmonious symphony of flavors. Each sip is a journey through layers of citrusy brightness, mellow bourbon warmth, and a hint of bittersweet complexity. Served straight up, it's a cocktail that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression.

Photo: Julia Hartbeck

bold   bright   balance

  • • Glassware: Coupe glass

    • Tools: Cocktail shaker and strainer

    • Garnish: Lemon twist

    • Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆

    • ABV: 25-30%

    • Updated: September 1, 2023

  • The heart of the cocktail, bourbon brings a rich and warming character with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.

    Substitutions:

    • Rye Whiskey: Rye whiskey offers a spicier and slightly drier flavor compared to bourbon, which can add a unique twist to the cocktail.

    • Tennessee Whiskey: Tennessee whiskey, known for its smooth and mellow character, can be a delightful alternative to bourbon.

  • This bright orange Italian aperitif contributes vibrant citrus and herbal notes with a touch of bitterness.

    Substitutions:

    • Campari: Campari offers a more pronounced bitterness compared to Aperol, which can result in a cocktail with a stronger bitter profile.

    • Cappelletti Aperitivo: This is another Italian aperitivo with a vibrant red hue and a flavor profile that's both bitter and lightly sweet.

  • A bittersweet Italian liqueur with a complex herbal and fruity profile. It adds depth and complexity to the cocktail.

    Substitutions:

    • Averna: Averna is a popular Italian amaro with a rich, dark flavor profile featuring hints of citrus and herbs. It can be a suitable substitute for Amaro Nonino.

    • Ramazzotti: This amaro has a complex blend of bitter and sweet flavors with herbal undertones, making it an interesting alternative.

  • The freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a zesty and tart element, balancing the sweetness and bitterness of the other ingredients.

    Substitutions:

    • Fresh Lime Juice: Lime juice can provide a similar tartness and citrusy brightness to the cocktail, adding a slightly different dimension to the flavor profile.

    • Fresh Grapefruit Juice: Grapefruit juice can bring a unique citrusy twist, with a touch of tartness and a slightly different flavor profile compared to lemon.

  • Serve the Paper Plane in a chilled coupe glass. It's often garnished with a twist of lemon peel for an aromatic touch.

Ingredients

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

  2. Add equal parts of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice.

  3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.

  4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Preparation

paper plane, take flight
over the sunset’s gold hue;
warm, bright and citrus.

“The Paper Plane is an intriguing paradox of flavors. It starts with the bold warmth of bourbon, a comforting embrace that gives way to the bittersweet elegance of Amaro Nonino. Aperol's vibrant citrusy notes add a zesty liveliness, while fresh lemon juice brightens the entire composition. The result is a harmonious blend of sweet, bitter, and tart, where each ingredient plays its part in perfect synchrony.

This contemporary classic offers a taste journey that's boldly refreshing. It's a vibrant cocktail with a modern twist, a testament to the creativity and innovation that define the cocktail renaissance. The Paper Plane is a symphony of flavors that delights the palate with its harmonious blend of bourbon's warmth, Amaro Nonino's bittersweet depth, and the lively zest of Aperol and lemon.”

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