Paper Plane Cocktail is a delightful concoction that has taken the cocktail world by storm. This modern classic, created by bartender Sam Ross in 2007, is a perfect blend of equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice. The vibrant orange hue and refreshing taste make it an instant favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. What I love most about the Paper Plane Cocktail is its harmonious balance of sweet, bitter, and tart flavors, which dance on the palate with every sip.

As someone who enjoys exploring new flavors, I find that the Paper Plane Cocktail not only offers a unique taste experience but also carries a sense of sophistication and creativity. Its simplicity in preparation makes it a convenient choice for both casual gatherings and elegant soirées. Whether youre celebrating a special occasion or simply unwinding after a long day, the Paper Plane Cocktail is sure to impress your guests and elevate your cocktail game. Join me as we dive into the recipe and discover why this drink has become a beloved staple in bars and homes alike!

Ingredients:

3/4 oz (22.5 ml) bourbon or rye whiskey
3/4 oz (22.5 ml) Aperol
3/4 oz (22.5 ml) Amaro Nonino
3/4 oz (22.5 ml) fresh lemon juice
Ice cubes
Orange twist or lemon wheel, for garnish

Preparing the Ingredients

1. **Gather Your Ingredients**: Start by collecting all the ingredients listed above. Make sure you have fresh lemon juice, as it makes a significant difference in the flavor of the cocktail. If you dont have Amaro Nonino, you can substitute it with another herbal liqueur, but the flavor profile will change slightly. 2. **Juicing the Lemons**: If youre using whole lemons, cut them in half and juice them using a citrus juicer or a reamer. Youll need about half a lemon to get 3/4 oz of juice. Strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve to remove any seeds or pulp for a smoother cocktail. 3. **Chill Your Glass**: While youre preparing the ingredients, its a good idea to chill your cocktail glass. You can do this by filling it with ice water and setting it aside while you mix the drink.

Mixing the Cocktail

4. **Prepare Your Shaker**: Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it halfway with ice cubes. This will help chill and dilute the cocktail as you shake it. 5. **Add the Ingredients**: Measure out 3/4 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey and pour it into the shaker. Next, add 3/4 oz of Aperol, followed by 3/4 oz of Amaro Nonino, and finally, add the 3/4 oz of fresh lemon juice. 6. **Shake It Up**: Secure the lid on your shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. You want to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined and chilled. The shaking process also helps to aerate the cocktail, enhancing its flavor. 7. **Strain the Cocktail**: Remove the ice water from your chilled glass and use a fine mesh strainer to pour the cocktail mixture into the glass. This will ensure that no ice shards make their way into your drink, giving you a smooth finish.

Garnishing the Cocktail

8. **Prepare the Garnish**: While the cocktail is settling in the glass, take an orange or lemon and cut a twist or a wheel for garnish. If youre using a twist, use a vegetable peeler or a knife to cut a thin strip of peel, making sure to avoid the bitter white pith. 9. **Add the Garnish**: Place the orange twist or lemon wheel on the rim of the glass or drop it into the drink. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aroma as you sip your cocktail.

Serving the Cocktail

10. **Enjoy Your Paper Plane Cocktail**: Your Paper Plane cocktail is now ready to be enjoyed! Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant color and the aromatic notes before taking your first sip. The balance of bitter and sweet flavors, combined with the refreshing citrus, makes this cocktail a delightful experience.

Tips for the Perfect Paper Plane Cocktail

– **Quality Ingredients**: The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the final taste of your cocktail. Opt for a good bourbon or rye whiskey and a quality Amaro Nonino if possible. – **Adjust to Taste**: If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, you can slightly increase the amount of Aperol or Amaro Nonino. Conversely, if you like it more tart, add a bit more lemon juice. – **Experiment with Variations**: Once youve mastered the classic Paper Plane, feel free to experiment with different spirits or liqueurs. For instance, you could try using a different herbal liqueur or even a flavored whiskey for a unique twist.

Pairing Suggestions

The Paper Plane cocktail pairs wonderfully with a variety of appetizers and main dishes. Here are a few suggestions: – **Appetizers**: Serve it alongside charcuterie boards, bruschetta, or shrimp cocktails. The cocktails bitterness complements salty and savory flavors beautifully. – **Main Dishes**: It also goes well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even spicy dishes like tacos or curry. The refreshing citrus notes help to balance out richer flavors. Now that you have all the steps and tips, youre ready to impress your friends or

Conclusion:

In summary, the Paper Plane cocktail is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their mixology game. Its perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and tart flavors makes it a refreshing choice for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply unwinding after a long day. The combination of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice creates a harmonious blend that is both sophisticated and approachable. For serving suggestions, I recommend garnishing your Paper Plane with a lemon twist or a cherry for an extra pop of color and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by swapping out the bourbon for rye whiskey or even trying a different amaro to see how it changes the profile of the drink. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this delightful cocktail a try and share your experience with friends and family. Whether youre a seasoned bartender or a novice, the Paper Plane cocktail is sure to impress. Dont forget to let me know how it turns out for you! Cheers to your next cocktail adventure!