
Paper Plane Ingredients
- 22,5 ml Bourbon
- 22,5 ml Amaro
- 22,5 ml Aperol
- 22,5 ml Lemon juice
Paper Plane Description
How to prepare the Paper Plane cocktail recipe
Balanced, vibrant, and irresistibly smooth, the Paper Plane is a modern classic cocktail that artfully blends bittersweet and sour flavors into a sleek, refreshing experience. With equal parts bourbon, amaro, Aperol, and lemon juice, the drink delivers a harmonious combination of rich whiskey notes, herbal bitterness, citrus brightness, and a touch of sweetness. Served up and beautifully simple in presentation, the Paper Plane is the kind of cocktail that feels fresh yet timeless—perfect for those who appreciate both balance and boldness in a glass.
Paper Plane cocktail ingredients:
Bourbon: 22.5 ml (0.75 oz)
Amaro (e.g., Amaro Nonino): 22.5 ml (0.75 oz)
Aperol: 22.5 ml (0.75 oz)
Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed): 22.5 ml (0.75 oz)
Optional garnish: Lemon twist or paper plane-shaped garnish
Paper Plane recipe instructions:
Chill the Glass: Prepare a coupe or Nick & Nora glass by chilling it beforehand.
Shake the Ingredients: In a shaker filled with ice, add bourbon, amaro, Aperol, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Shake Well: Shake vigorously until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
Strain: Double strain into the chilled glass to achieve a smooth texture.
Garnish & Serve: Garnish with a lemon twist or a playful paper plane decoration for extra flair.
Paper Plane history and origin:
The Paper Plane was created in 2007 by renowned bartender Sam Ross (also known for the Penicillin cocktail) while working at New York’s Milk & Honey bar. Originally crafted for the opening menu of The Violet Hour in Chicago, the drink was named after the M.I.A. song “Paper Planes,” which was popular at the time.
Ross designed the cocktail to be perfectly balanced—equal parts bitter, sweet, strong, and sour—making it approachable for newcomers to bitter liqueurs like Aperol and amaro. Since its creation, the Paper Plane has soared in popularity, earning its status as a true modern classic, celebrated for its simplicity and nuanced flavor.

