How to make a paper plane cocktail Perfect Guide | Craft Cocktails

The Paper Plane cocktail is a modern classic known for blending fresh lemon zest with bourbon. It features the bitter-sweet taste of Aperol and Amaro Nonino too. Perfect for those who love mixology or for newcomers to bourbon. This guide makes crafting the ideal Paper Plane cocktail easy and fun, including its interesting background.

Key Takeaways

• The Paper Plane cocktail was created in 2007 by bartender Sam Ross in New York.
• Consists of equal parts Bourbon Whiskey, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and Fresh Lemon Juice.
• Aperol adds a distinctive bittersweet orange flavor with a lower alcohol content.
• Falls into the sour cocktail category and is considered a daisy cocktail.
• Personal variations and adjustments in ratios can significantly alter the flavor profile.

Introduction to the Paper Plane Cocktail

The Paper Plane cocktail is a prime example of new-age mixology. It combines complexity with a refreshing taste. It was crafted by the famous bartender, Sam Ross. His recipe includes Bourbon, Amaro, Aperol, and lemon juice in equal measure.

This mix creates a unique depth of flavor. You can taste the strong Bourbon, the Amaro’s herbal notes, Aperol’s citrus twist, and the lemon’s freshness.

Taking the Paper Plane cocktail apart, one sees the magic is in its details. The Bourbon whiskey offers a rich taste thanks to its aging process. Amaro adds Italian herbal hints. Aperol gives a bit of bitterness and aroma from its unique ingredients. Lastly, lemon juice makes it all bright and tart.

Making a Paper Plane cocktail is simple, but getting it just right is the challenge. This drink is now a favorite at bars around the world. Its balance and interesting mix of flavors have won it many fans. It’s even been featured in several big publications.

This intro is for anyone wanting to learn more about cocktails. It offers a guide on making the perfect Paper Plane. By the end, you’ll know all about its ingredients and how to mix them. This will prepare you for making your very own top-notch cocktail.

History of the Paper Plane Cocktail

In 2008, bartender Sam Ross teamed up with Sasha Petraske to create the Paper Plane cocktail. It was made for the opening of The Violet Hour in Chicago. This cocktail became well-known quickly for its great mix of flavors.

Origins and Inspiration

Sam Ross’s talent and love for unique drinks inspired the Paper Plane cocktail. He wanted a drink that was simple yet elegant. Originally, it was called “Paper Airplane,” a name mix-up later fixed to “Paper Plane.” This change might have made it sound cooler, plus it connects to M.I.A.’s song “Paper Planes.”

Evolution Over Time

Although it has seen some changes, the core of the Paper Plane drink has stayed the same. It started with Campari but now uses Aperol for a milder taste. This cocktail mixes bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice, giving it a strong yet fresh flavor.

In 2020, the International Bartenders Association gave the Paper Plane special recognition. It’s now listed as one of their official cocktails, showing its lasting fame. Bartenders usually mix it straight up, without ice, using equal parts of each ingredient.

What’s great about the Paper Plane recipe is that you can change it up. Some people swap bourbon for rum or Aperol for Campari. This keeps the drink interesting and beloved by many.

Key Ingredients for Making a Paper Plane Cocktail

The Paper Plane cocktail gets its charm from four powerful ingredients. Let’s talk about each one. We’ll learn why they make this cocktail shine.

Bourbon

Bourbon is the heart of the Paper Plane cocktail. It brings a warm depth that’s key. Choosing a smooth, aged bourbon is best for a balanced drink.

Aperol

Aperol gives the cocktail a bitter yet sweet citrus kick. Its bright orange color lights up the mix. Aperol goes perfectly with bourbon and Amaro Nonino. If you don’t have Aperol, Campari works but adds extra bitterness.

Amaro Nonino

Amaro Nonino adds complex flavors of herbs and orange. This grappa-based spirit brings notes of caramel and citrus. Its role is vital for the cocktail’s depth and balanced bitterness.

While Amaro Nonino is great, other options like Amaro Averna can work. And even though it’s around $50 a bottle, Amaro Nonino is unique. It really makes the Paper Plane special.

Fresh Lemon Juice

Lemon juice adds a fresh, sour twist. It cuts through the sweetness and bitterness. Using fresh lemon juice is a must for the perfect taste.

How to Make a Paper Plane Cocktail

Making a Paper Plane cocktail is fun and takes some skill. You mix bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice. The drink was created by Sam Ross in 2008, and it’s become very popular.

To start making your cocktail, gather everything you need. You’ll need:

• 1 oz. Bourbon
• 1 oz. Aperol
• 1 oz. Amaro Nonino
• 1 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
• Ice cubes
• Cocktail shaker
• Chilled coupe glass

The process involves a few important steps:

1. Put all the ingredients in a shaker.
2. Throw in some ice.
3. Shake it really well for 15 seconds.
4. Pour it into a chilled glass.
5. Add a lemon peel, orange twist, or a tiny paper plane for fun.

Following these steps carefully will give you a perfect Paper Plane every time. It’s a great way to make a tasty, fancy drink at home.

Here’s how each ingredient helps make a great Paper Plane cocktail:

By using these steps, your drink will turn out great every time. Each part adds something special to the cocktail. It’s a hit with people who love cocktails all over the world.

Crafting Techniques and Tips for the Perfect Paper Plane

Making a perfect Paper Plane cocktail needs careful mixing, shaking, and serving. To start, mix bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice well. This ensures every sip is filled with a mix of sweet and sour delights. Let’s explore these important steps.

Mixing and Shaking

Creating the perfect Paper Plane begins with exact measurements of each ingredient. This ensures the cocktail’s flavors are perfectly in harmony. Always shake the mix vigorously for 10-15 seconds with ice. This step chills it just right and mixes the flavors smoothly.

Straining and Serving

Straining is next and key to a silky texture. Use both a Hawthorne strainer and a fine-mesh sieve to ensure no ice or pulp remains. This makes the drink perfectly smooth, a must-know for good cocktail making.

Presentation is crucial when serving. Use a chilled coupe glass and add a lemon or orange twist. These garnishes make the drink look beautiful and add a hint of citrus aroma. It elevates the whole cocktail experience.

Popular Variations of the Paper Plane Cocktail

Looking into paper plane cocktail variations shows many unique tastes. They all bring something new while staying true to the original. Let’s dive into the top ones:

Naked and Famous

The Naked and Famous cocktail is daring and smoky. It uses mezcal instead of bourbon. This change makes it rich and earthy. Yellow Chartreuse adds a sweet herb taste, and Aperol brings a smooth finish. Despite the swap, it keeps the balance fans love.

New Direction

The New Direction cocktail flips the classic by using rye whiskey or peated Scotch. This choice gives it a bold taste. It includes Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice in the mix. It’s balanced yet more intense than the original.

Paper Train

The Paper Train cocktail tries new amari or liqueurs instead of Amaro Nonino. Consider Grand Marnier, extra bitters, or exclusive Italian sweet vermouths. This tweak lets you customize the flavor. Yet, it still keeps the base recipe strong.

This array of paper plane cocktail variations shows how creative mixology can be. Each one offers a unique taste for cocktail fans. There’s a Paper Plane mix for everyone’s liking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even skilled mixologists can run into problems perfecting their cocktail craft. Common mistakes include wrong ingredient amounts or shaking the mix incorrectly. These can really change how the drink tastes.

We’re going to face these challenges directly. We aim to make every Paper Plane cocktail shine with its well-balanced flavors.

Many make the mistake of not keeping ingredient portions right. The Paper Plane needs bourbon, Amaro Nonino, Aperol, and lemon juice in equal measures. Changing this makes the drink too strong, too bitter, or too sweet.

To avoid these errors, always measure accurately. A jigger is a good tool for this, making sure everything’s in the right ratio.

Getting the technique right is also key. Shake the drink hard with lots of ice. This gets it cold and mixed right. When you pour through a strainer, do it gently. You don’t want the drink full of ice chips.

Don’t forget the importance of fresh, quality ingredients. Aperol, essential for the Paper Plane, needs to be kept well. It’s not as strong as Campari, so its taste must be preserved carefully.

By fixing these errors and improving your skills, each Paper Plane can be a hit. They will offer a drink experience that’s pleasant and just right.

Serving Suggestions and Garnishes

Drinks taste better when served beautifully. The right glass is key for the Paper Plane cocktail. It makes every sip perfect.

Glassware

For the best drink experience, use a chilled coupe glass for the Paper Plane. This glass is not just pretty; it keeps the drink cool. Thus, it stays refreshing till the end. For big groups, mix a lot of Paper Planes by scaling up the recipe. This way, everyone gets to enjoy the mix of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice.

Garnish Ideas

Your garnish choice can make your drink look and smell great. The Paper Plane often gets a lemon twist on top. This goes well with the fresh lemon juice inside. If you want something fun, add a tiny paper plane too. It’s creative and makes the cocktail stand out.

• A classic lemon twist
• A tiny paper plane
• A sprig of rosemary for a herbal note

These Paper Plane cocktail garnishes make the drink a feast for the eyes and nose. They add to the whole experience, making your cocktail special.

Pairing the Paper Plane with Food

The Paper Plane cocktail goes well with many dishes. It especially complements light appetizers or big entrees. Its mix of flavors creates a complete taste experience.

Appetizer Pairings

To complement the cocktail, choose appetizers that balance its strong flavors well. Cheese is a great option. The ashed Chevriou stands out, as noted by a cheese and cocktail pairing project. Langres, 2-year-old Comté, and Fourme d’Ambert also pair nicely. You can also try a charcuterie board with meats like prosciutto and mild salami. For something fresh, tartare or ceviche work well, adding brightness to the cocktail.

Entrée Pairings

When selecting entrees, look for dishes that match the cocktail’s boldness. Foods like roasted lamb or duck breast are good choices. Seafood can also pair beautifully, including grilled salmon or seared scallops. Vegetarian options like mushroom risotto or lentil stew bring out the cocktail’s complex flavors. They add earthiness and umami that enhance your drinking and dining experience.

Trying different pairings with the Paper Plane cocktail can make any event memorable. Elegant cheese or hearty entrees will elevate the occasion. They match the cocktail’s unique taste and style.

Conclusion

The quest to make craft cocktails? The Paper Plane is a highlight. It mixes sweet, sour, and bitter perfectly. This modern classic shines for someone new or experienced in crafting drinks. Check out this DIY cocktail recipe. It brings both ease and elegance, welcoming new flavors.

Exploring the cocktail’s backstory is just the start. Perfecting the shake matters, too. Shake for 10-15 seconds to truly blend and chill. Then, top it off with a lemon twist or an orange peel for a special touch. Mixing up the bourbons and using fresh lemon juice? It makes your drink unique. This is your chance to get creative in making cocktails.

Dive deeper into the world of craft cocktails. The Paper Plane is a go-to for many reasons. It caters to different tastes, making it a hit in modern mixing. Enjoy making this special drink. Let this be a beginning in your journey of cocktail mastery.