The Paper Plane cocktail has quickly become a favorite in modern cocktail bars and home gatherings. Its balanced blend of bitter, sour, and sweet flavors creates a refreshing drink that’s both easy to make and unforgettable to sip. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a casual drinker looking to experiment, this cocktail offers a perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. Let’s dive into the rich history and vibrant recipe of the Paper Plane cocktail—the drink that’s stealing the spotlight in 2025.
The Origin Story
The Paper Plane cocktail was created in 2007 by renowned bartender Sam Ross, who is also the mastermind behind other popular drinks like the “Penicillin.” This cocktail emerged from Ross’s desire to craft a drink with a modern, fresh twist that still honored the traditions of classic cocktails. Inspired by the combination of flavors found in the classic bourbon sour, the Paper Plane cocktail is now a global favorite.
The name itself is a nod to the carefree and playful nature of the paper airplane—an easy-to-make yet joyful object that’s associated with both childhood nostalgia and the freedom of flight. This cocktail, much like its namesake, represents a balance of simplicity and elegance, offering a delightful drinking experience without the complexity often found in more intricate cocktails.
Key Ingredients for the Paper Plane Cocktail
The Paper Plane cocktail stands out because of its four key ingredients, all of which work in perfect harmony to create a sophisticated yet approachable drink. Here’s what you’ll need to make one at home:
- Bourbon
The backbone of this cocktail, bourbon adds depth and richness to the drink. Choose a high-quality bourbon with a smooth, mellow profile, as it will be the dominant flavor in the mix. - Aperol
Aperol, a bitter orange liqueur, brings a vibrant citrus flavor that adds complexity to the drink without overwhelming the taste buds. Its bright orange color gives the cocktail its signature hue. - Amaro Nonino
This Italian herbal liqueur provides a hint of sweetness and bitterness, offering a complex flavor that balances the sharpness of Aperol and the richness of the bourbon. - Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed lemon juice introduces a tart, zesty element that cuts through the sweetness and balances the bitterness of the other ingredients. It’s the perfect finishing touch that elevates the overall flavor.
When combined, these four ingredients create a well-balanced cocktail that’s refreshing, bitter, sweet, and citrusy all at once. The key to mastering the Paper Plane cocktail is getting the proportions right, as the equal parts of each ingredient ensure a harmonious mix.
How to Make a Paper Plane Cocktail
Making the Paper Plane cocktail is simple and quick, but the results are impressive. Here’s how you can craft this delicious cocktail:
Ingredients:
- ¾ oz Bourbon
- ¾ oz Aperol
- ¾ oz Amaro Nonino
- ¾ oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Ice
Directions:
- Fill a Cocktail Shaker: Add ice to a cocktail shaker to chill the ingredients.
- Add Ingredients: Pour ¾ oz of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and freshly squeezed lemon juice into the shaker.
- Shake: Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 10–15 seconds to ensure the ingredients mix well and chill.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass or a rocks glass, depending on your preference.
- Garnish (Optional): For a little flair, you can garnish with a lemon twist or a thin slice of lemon on the rim.
The Paper Plane cocktail can be served either on the rocks or straight up, making it a versatile drink that’s ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a quiet evening, or celebrating a special moment, this cocktail adds a touch of class and style.
Why Choose the Paper Plane Cocktail?
There are many reasons why the Paper Plane cocktail has remained so popular and continues to be a hit in 2025. Here’s why you should consider adding it to your drink repertoire:
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of bourbon’s richness, Aperol’s citrusy bitterness, and the herbal complexity of Amaro Nonino creates a flavor profile that’s both complex and approachable. This balance is key to the drink’s enduring appeal.
- Easy to Make: With only four ingredients and simple steps, the Paper Plane cocktail is a breeze to prepare. It’s an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced cocktail makers looking for something quick and delicious.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party, enjoying a casual evening, or celebrating a special event, the Paper Plane cocktail works for virtually any occasion. Its elegant presentation and balanced flavors make it a go-to drink for a variety of settings.
- Adaptable: While the classic recipe is fantastic on its own, the Paper Plane cocktail also lends itself well to variations. You can experiment with different types of bitters or even swap the bourbon for rye whiskey for a spicier twist.
The Modern-Day Classic
The Paper Plane cocktail is a prime example of a modern cocktail that strikes a perfect balance between innovation and tradition. It’s a drink that speaks to today’s more adventurous cocktail drinkers who appreciate a blend of flavors that isn’t overly sweet or too complicated. With its smooth yet sharp taste, the Paper Plane has earned its spot on cocktail menus across the world and continues to be a favorite among enthusiasts.
Its popularity in 2025 remains strong, with bartenders and home mixologists alike constantly perfecting the recipe and finding new ways to enjoy it. If you haven’t tried this cocktail yet, it’s time to give it a shot. Whether you’re a fan of whiskey-based drinks or just someone looking for a refreshing, unique cocktail, the Paper Plane cocktail will undoubtedly meet your expectations.
Conclusion
The Paper Plane cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and balanced drink that’s both easy to make and full of complex flavors. Its blend of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice makes it a refreshing choice for any occasion. As we move through 2025, this cocktail continues to be a crowd-pleaser, loved for its simplicity, style, and versatility.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for something new, grab your shaker and give the Paper Plane cocktail a go—you won’t be disappointed.