Paper Plane

The Paper Plane cocktail isn’t just a drink—it’s a statement. Sleek, balanced, and a little mysterious, it’s a modern classic that’s somehow both approachable and sophisticated. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or just someone who appreciates a drink that’s as good as it looks, the Paper Plane is a must-make. And let’s be honest, the name alone is enough to spark curiosity—because who doesn’t want to sip on something inspired by childhood nostalgia and a nod to aviation?

I first tried this drink just last year when I was in California for work, despite not being a bourbon fan, and it quickly became my favorite cocktail to make at home! The ingredients are pricy, which also makes it unfortunate that it’s my favorite cocktail to make at home. Even if you don’t like bourbon, you may just like this Paper Plane!

A Brief History of the Paper Plane Cocktail

While it might feel like the Paper Plane has been around forever, it actually debuted in 2008, making it practically a baby in the cocktail world. Sam Ross, a renowned bartender (and the mastermind behind the Penicillin cocktail), created it for a bar in Chicago. The name? A playful tribute to the M.I.A. song “Paper Planes,” which was everywhere at the time.

Ross wanted to create something that was equal parts refreshing, balanced, and just a touch bittersweet. Mission accomplished. With its equal-parts formula and Italian amaro twist, the Paper Plane quickly earned its place in the pantheon of great modern cocktails. It’s essentially the millennial version of a classic—fun, effortless, and totally Instagrammable.

Traditional Ingredients: The Magic Four

The Paper Plane’s beauty lies in its simplicity. Four ingredients. Equal parts. Easy to remember, easier to drink. Here’s what makes this cocktail soar:

1. Bourbon: The base spirit. Think smooth, rich, and a little oaky. It’s the backbone that keeps this cocktail grounded. Use something good but not that expensive bourbon you have for sipping—something like Angel’s Envy, Basil Hayden, or Four Roses are perfect here.
2. Aperol: Adds a pop of color and just enough citrusy-bitter brightness to keep things interesting.
3. Amaro Nonino: This is where the magic happens. Nonino brings a warm, herbal complexity that sets the Paper Plane apart. If you’re new to amaro, welcome to your gateway. You’ll see versions that swap in other amaros, but I truly think this one provides the best, smoothest flavor.
4. Fresh Lemon Juice: The zingy, tart note that ties it all together. Fresh-squeezed is non-negotiable—no bottles of sad, processed lemon juice here, please.

The Technique: Shake, Strain, Sip

Making a Paper Plane is as simple as it gets. No fancy tools, no obscure techniques—just good ingredients and a little wrist action. Here’s the basic rundown:

1. Combine your ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, measure out equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice.
2. Don’t skimp on shaking it: Add ice and shake vigorously for about 25–30 seconds. You want the drink to chill and slightly dilute—because no one likes a lukewarm cocktail.
3. Strain and serve: Strain into a coupe or other fancy little glass that makes you feel special. Bonus points if you’ve pre-chilled the glass in the freezer.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Paper Plane

1. Use fresh lemon juice: It’s the difference between a good cocktail and a great one. Yes, squeezing lemons is annoying, but so is drinking a subpar drink.
2. Don’t skimp on Amaro Nonino: It’s the star of the show. Substitutions won’t give you the same warm, bittersweet magic.
3. Chill everything: Cocktails taste better cold. Keep your shaker, glass, and even your spirits chilled if you’re feeling extra fancy.
4. Double-strain for perfection: To avoid rogue ice shards, strain your cocktail through a fine-mesh sieve. It’s a little extra effort but totally worth it.
5. Use a coupe glass: This is another non-negotiable for me.

The Paper Plane is the drink you whip up when you want to impress someone (even if that someone is just you). On the palate, it’s silky smooth, with just the right balance of tart citrus, sweetness, and bitterness. It’s versatile enough for a summer happy hour or a cozy winter night. And let’s not overlook the bonus that it’s equal parts—aka no complicated measuring. If you want to get extra-fancy, make tiny paper planes (you will regret this, as I did when I spent an hour to get the three poorly made planes featured here) and insert a cocktail pick through for a garnish. Whether you’re a cocktail newbie or a seasoned home bartender, the Paper Plane is one recipe you’ll want to keep in your repertoire.

Happy cooking—or should I say, happy shaking!

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