Paper Plane co*cktail Recipe : Classic Bourbon Drink | White On Rice (2024)

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by Todd + Diane

Invented by legendary Aussie bartender Sam Ross in 2007, the Paper Plane co*cktail is a beautiful balance between the bitter of Amaro & Aperol, the bright sour & acidity of fresh lemon juice, and the complex sweetness of bourbon.

Paper Plane co*cktail Recipe : Classic Bourbon Drink | White On Rice (1)

Classic Paper Plane co*cktail

The Paper Plane has easiest of ratios to remember, it is equal portions of the 4 parts (Amaro, Aperol, Bourbon, and lemon juice). It is hands down one of our absolute favorite bourbon co*cktails to drink, and we aren’t the only ones. Often when ordering out, the bartender will give a knowing glimmer in their eye when asked if they can make a Paper Plane. We’ve heard time and time again that it is one of their personal favorites. Thank you Stephen for introducing it to us.

Paper Plane co*cktail Recipe : Classic Bourbon Drink | White On Rice (2)
Paper Plane co*cktail Recipe : Classic Bourbon Drink | White On Rice (3)

Video: Watch How to Make Paper Plane co*cktail

A few notes on the ingredients. Amaro will vary tremendously in bitterness and flavor profile. The Paper Plane was originally made with Amaro Nonino Quintessetia and that is still the favorite of most. Other good substitutions we’ve tried are Amaro Montenegro, andCardamaro Vino Amaro. Amaro itself is a fascinating deep dive and if you want a good starting point, check out Brad Parson’s book, Amaro: The Spirited World of … (it has a long subtitle).For the second ingredient, Aperol, it is nearly always the choice in a Paper Plane, but Campari is a proper substitute, however it will be more bitter than Aperol. Campari was actually Sam Ross’ original choice in the Paper Plane, but he later found Aperol to be a better balance in the co*cktail. For the bourbon, you can’t go wrong with Buffalo Trace, but feel free to play with your favorites. And please use fresh lemon juice. It makes a huge difference over any bottle lemon juice.

Paper Plane co*cktail Recipe : Classic Bourbon Drink | White On Rice (4)

Paper Plane co*cktail Recipe : Classic Bourbon Drink | White On Rice (5)

Paper Plane (Bourbon co*cktail)

The Paper Plane co*cktail is a beautiful balance between the bitter of Amaro & Aperol, the bright sour & acidity of fresh lemon juice, and the complex sweetness of bourbon. The easiest of ratios to remember, it is equal portions of the 4 parts (Amaro, Aperol, Bourbon, and lemon juice). See write up above for more details and amaro suggestions.

5 from 7 votes

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Ingredients

Instructions

  • In a shaker filled with ice, add the amaro, aperol, bourbon, and lemon juice. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.

  • Strain and pour into a coupe or Nick & Nora glass. Enjoy.

Video

Nutrition Information per Serving

Calories: 188kcal, Carbohydrates: 33g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 1g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 1mg, Sugar: 8g, Vitamin C: 8mg

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: co*cktails

Calories: 188

co*cktail Goodies & Barware:

We are obsessed with sexy barware and co*cktail supplies. A great bar setup doesn’t need a lot of supplies, but having a few quality tools adds that a classiness and bit of swagger to that evening co*cktail. Choose your favorite style and create a set around them. Here’s are asome of our favorites:

Here’s our complete–>

Paper Plane co*cktail Recipe : Classic Bourbon Drink | White On Rice (9)

If you make this drink recipe please share it with us on social media! We’d love to see your creations. Thank you, friends.

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Paper Plane co*cktail Recipe : Classic Bourbon Drink | White On Rice (10)

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7 comments on “Paper Plane co*cktail”

  1. Dora December 6, 2021 @ 11:51 pm Reply

    This is the best holiday co*cktail I’ve ever tried. Love making these for our dinner guests.Paper Plane co*cktail Recipe : Classic Bourbon Drink | White On Rice (13)

  2. Maddie April 26, 2021 @ 8:55 pm Reply

    This was a really refreshing co*cktail recipe. I can’t wait to make more of these during my Summer cookouts.Paper Plane co*cktail Recipe : Classic Bourbon Drink | White On Rice (14)

  3. Tommy Brunett December 20, 2020 @ 8:55 am Reply

    This is definitely the perfect drink for the holiday weekend. I can’t wait to try this out, thank you for sharing this.Paper Plane co*cktail Recipe : Classic Bourbon Drink | White On Rice (15)

  4. Alex December 18, 2020 @ 4:03 am Reply

    co*cktails with amaro are incredible!Paper Plane co*cktail Recipe : Classic Bourbon Drink | White On Rice (16)

    • December 18, 2020 @ 9:21 am Reply

      Agree 100%! Amaro varies so much it is fun to experiment with the ones which hit your palate just right. We just discovered a blood orange amaro named “Amara” which was also amazing in a Paper Plane & beyond!

  5. Amy November 27, 2020 @ 11:37 pm Reply

    My husband and I truly enjoyed this co*cktail. We’re definitely making this again and again.Paper Plane co*cktail Recipe : Classic Bourbon Drink | White On Rice (17)

    • December 18, 2020 @ 9:23 am Reply

      So glad you loved it!

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Paper Plane co*cktail Recipe : Classic Bourbon Drink | White On Rice (2024)

FAQs

What bourbon to use in Paper Plane? ›

The original recipe specifically requests Buffalo Trace, which is a great mixing bourbon and an excellent choice. Four Roses is a bottle we often reach for in bourbon co*cktails, and it will work great here too. If the only bourbon on your counter costs too much for a co*cktail, then just use rye.

What is a substitute for Aperol in a Paper Plane co*cktail? ›

If you don't have Aperol on hand, you can substitute in Campari, but the resulting co*cktail will be more bitter (add a bit of simple syrup, to taste, to counteract this).

What is a substitute for Amaro Nonino in Paper Plane? ›

What is a substitute for Amaro Nonino in Paper Plane? If you can't track down Amaro Nonino, you can give another amaro a try (Amaro Averna is a close sub), but it will definitely affect the taste. Aperol and Campari are interchangeable, but Campari will result in a more bitter drink.

What can you mix with bourbon on a plane? ›

Future travelers we give you the “Intercontinental.” For the bourbon lover who hates to fly. Fill cup of ice ¼ full with orange juice, empty entire bottle of bourbon, fill rest of cup with ginger ale. Stir and enjoy.

What are the ingredients of a Paper Plane co*cktail? ›

PAPER PLANE
  • 1 part. Maker's Mark® Bourbon.
  • 1 part Aperol® liqueur.
  • 1 part Amaro Nonino® Quintessentia liqueur.
  • 1 part fresh lemon juice.
  • Lemon zest or twist for garnish.

Why is it called Paper Plane co*cktail? ›

Crafted in 2008 in New York, the Paper Plane co*cktail takes its name from the hit track “Paper Planes” by British Hip-Hop artist M.I.A., a personal favourite of its inventor, award-winning bartender, Sam Ross.

Which is sweeter, Campari or Aperol? ›

Aperol is sweeter than Campari and has around 11 percent ABV level. The biggest difference may be how they're used. Aperol is used to complement other flavors in co*cktails and mixed drinks because it doesn't have a high alcohol level. Campari has a higher alcohol content and more flavor.

What is the closest drink to Aperol? ›

Another close substitute for Aperol is Lillet. Although this aperitif is French instead of Italian, Lillet also makes an excellent, complex Spritz.

Which amaro is best for Paper Plane? ›

While Campari and Aperol are the most well-known amaros, there are many others. The amaro of choice (in addition to Aperol) for a Paper Plane is Amaro Nonino Quintessentia.

Can you make a Paper Plane without amaro? ›

The Paper Plane usually calls for Amaro Nonino, but you might have an easier time finding and affording Averna, which does just as well in this co*cktail.

What are 3 different paper airplanes? ›

  • Paper Airplanes.
  • Bullet Plane. This plane flies as fast and as far as you can throw it, although it can also spin out of control if thrown too hard. Accurate firm creases are important. Delta Plane. This plane flies straight and steady. It is easy to fold and a great all around flier. Intercepter Plane. ...
  • Bullet Plane.

What is the most popular bourbon co*cktail? ›

The most classic of all bourbon co*cktails, the Old Fashioned has been around for more than 200 years. Its staying power owes to its simplicity: Little more than a slug of whiskey, seasoned and sweetened with Angostura bitters and sugar, the drink is more special than a neat pour, but nearly as easy to enjoy.

What is a French 75 on a plane? ›

French 75. A DIY French 75 may not be as posh as one served in swanky co*cktail bars, but it's certainly still worth your while. Make some simple syrup at the terminal, then request a cup of ice, an empty cup, gin, sparkling wine (Champagne, if they have it) and lemon during beverage service.

Can bourbon be 130 proof? ›

There are overproof Bourbons which, if bottled at cask strength can be over 130 Proof (65%+) alcohol. Overproof happens when whiskey is allowed to age in very warm warehouses. Although alcohol evaporates at lower temperature than water, alcohol molecules are much larger than water molecules.

What is considered barrel proof bourbon? ›

Under ruling 79-9 of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, a whiskey can only be called "barrel proof" if the bottling proof is not more than 1% ABV (2 degrees U.S. proof) lower than when the barrels were dumped at the end of the aging period.

What is barrel entry proof bourbon? ›

Bourbon cannot be distilled at higher than 160 proof, and it must go into the barrel at 125 proof or lower. This keeps it from turning into a spirit more akin to vodka. Distillers add water to "proof it down" to 125 or less. At the time of bottling, bourbon cannot be lower than 80 proof. History of Barrel Entry Proof.

How do you pack bourbon for travel? ›

Tape the top of the bag shut for extra security, although this is optional but recommended. Next, put the alcohol in the center of the suitcase with the towel underneath it. Then, wrap the towel around and over the alcohol so it is secure, like wrapping up a gift.

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