Some cocktails feel like they’ve been around forever, even when they’re relatively new to the scene. The Paper Plane is one of those drinks.
Created in 2008 by bartender Sam Ross, the Paper Plane has already earned “modern classic” status, and for good reason. It’s one of those beautifully balanced cocktails that somehow manages to be bright, bitter, citrusy, herbal, and just a touch warming all at once.
What makes the Paper Plane especially appealing for home bartenders is its simplicity: equal parts, no complicated syrups, no obscure techniques, and a result that tastes far more sophisticated than the effort required suggests.
This is a cocktail for bourbon drinkers who want something lighter and brighter, but it’s equally compelling for people who normally gravitate toward citrus-forward or aperitif-style drinks.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice.
- Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
- Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Serving Notes
A small lemon twist works nicely here if you want a garnish, though the drink is traditionally served without much fuss. Because this cocktail is equal parts, it’s exceptionally easy to scale for a small gathering. Mix the ingredients in advance (without ice), refrigerate, and shake individual servings to order. If you’re introducing someone to amaro, this is one of the best entry points—complex enough to be interesting, but not aggressively bitter.A Few Ingredient Notes
Amaro Nonino matters here.
Yes, it’s the most expensive bottle in the mix, and yes, substitutions will change the drink significantly. That doesn’t mean alternatives can’t be enjoyable, but the original balance really is built around Nonino’s softer, citrus-herbal profile.
Fresh lemon juice only.
Bottled lemon juice will flatten this cocktail quickly.
Bourbon choice:
A mid-proof bourbon (90–100 proof) tends to work best. Something too delicate gets lost; something overly oaky can dominate.
