If you’re into cocktails that are a little off the beaten path but still totally balanced, the Paper Plane is for you.
It’s got that perfect mix of bold bourbon, citrusy Aperol, herbal Amaro Nonino and a bit of fresh lemon juice that makes each sip feel like a little surprise.
This drink is smooth, bright and just the right amount of complex. It’s not too sweet or too bitter, but perfectly in the middle.
With its golden-orange hue and velvety texture, the Paper Plane doesn’t just taste good, it’s the kind of drink that makes a simple night feel special without trying too hard.
What Is a Paper Plane and Why It’s a Cocktail You Need to Try
The Paper Plane is a modern classic with a unique combination of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino and lemon juice. It’s bright, bittersweet and surprisingly smooth all at once.
It’s one of those drinks that sounds a little unusual at first. Bourbon and Aperol? But once you take a sip, you realize how perfectly it all comes together.
The bourbon brings warmth, the Aperol adds citrusy bitterness and the Amaro Nonino gives it a rich herbal edge that lingers just enough. A little lemon juice ties it all together with a crisp, zippy finish.
It’s complex without being overwhelming and the balance of flavors is what makes it so special.
How to Make the Perfect Paper Plane at Home
The Paper Plane is one of those cocktails that’s easy to make but feels like a pro move. You don’t need anything fancy, just the right ingredients and a good shake.
Here’s how to do it:
- Equal parts of everything: 3/4 oz of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino and fresh lemon juice. No need to overthink the ratios.
- Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled juice won’t give you the same bright kick.
- Shake it well: Add ice to the shaker and shake for about 15 seconds until it’s nice and chilled.
- Strain into a coupe glass: A coupe adds that touch of elegance.
- Garnish with a lemon twist: That little citrus swirl not only looks great but also brings in extra aroma.
Best Foods to Pair with a Paper Plane
The Paper Plane is refreshing and a little bittersweet, so you want food that balances those flavors without overwhelming them. Here are some great pairings:
Charcuterie board: Salty, savory meats and cheeses, especially something like prosciutto or aged cheddar, pair perfectly with the drink’s herbal edge.
Spicy tuna tartare: The freshness and slight heat of the tuna tartare complements the citrus and bitterness of the cocktail.
Grilled shrimp: Light, smoky and savory, grilled shrimp adds a nice balance to the drink’s bold flavors.
Citrusy ceviche: The tangy, zesty flavors in ceviche work well with the bright lemon and Aperol notes.
Bruschetta with tomato and basil: A refreshing, slightly acidic bite that matches the drink’s crisp citrus finish.
Goat cheese salad: Creamy goat cheese with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette adds richness and freshness without overpowering the cocktail.
These pairings will enhance the experience of sipping a Paper Plane while keeping things balanced and flavorful.
The Elegant Paper Plane Cocktail
The Paper Plane is all about balance. You get the bold warmth of bourbon riding alongside the bittersweet citrus pop of Aperol, smoothed out by the rich herbal notes of Amaro Nonino. Then comes the fresh lemon juice—zippy, sharp and just the right lift.
The result? A cocktail that’s equal parts refreshing and refined. Tart, lightly sweet and smooth enough to go down a little too easy. One sip and it lingers—in the best way. It’s not just memorable. It’s the kind of drink you find yourself thinking about long after the glass is empty.
Ingredients
- 3/4 oz Bourbon Whiskey
- 3/4 oz Aperol
- 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
- 3/4 oz Fresh lemon juice
- Ice for shaking
- Lemon twist or wheel for garnish
Zero-proof version: Use non-alcoholic bourbon or a combination of almond syrup and apple cider vinegar to replace the Amaro Nonino. Replace Aperol with non-alcoholic Aperol or a splash of grapefruit juice and finish with fresh lemon juice. Add some club soda for a little fizz and garnish with a lemon twist for that signature refreshing finish.
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino and fresh lemon juice.
- Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into a coupe glass or an old-fashioned glass filled with ice.
- Garnish: Add a lemon twist or wheel on top for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 118 kcal
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
Paper Plane Variations and Easy Twists to Try
Once you’ve nailed the classic Paper Plane, it’s time to get creative. Here are a few variations that add new flavors while keeping the spirit of the original:
- Spicy Paper Plane: Add a splash of jalapeño-infused Aperol or muddle a few slices of jalapeño for a spicy twist that complements the drink’s citrus and herbal notes.
- Peach Paper Plane: Swap the Aperol for peach liqueur and add a dash of orange bitters for a sweeter, fruitier take on the classic.
- Smoky Paper Plane: Replace the bourbon with a smoky scotch or mezcal for a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
- Herbal Paper Plane: Infuse the Amaro Nonino with a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme to bring an herbal, aromatic layer to the drink.
- Zero-proof Paper Plane: Use non-alcoholic bourbon and aperitif-style drinks for a non-alcoholic option that still brings all the bright, complex flavors.
- Tropical Paper Plane: Add a splash of pineapple juice or coconut water to bring a tropical twist, perfect for summer sipping.
With these variations, you can keep things fresh and experiment with new flavors that’ll keep the Paper Plane exciting every time you make it.
Want to try some more Bourbon cocktails? Why not try an Old Fashioned or a Mint Julep?
To pin for later:
Paper Plane Cocktail Recipe
The Paper Plane cocktail is a bold, smooth blend of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice. Perfectly balanced with sweet, bitter, and citrusy flavors!
Ingredients
- 22 ml Bourbon Whiskey
- 22 ml Aperol
- 22 ml Amaro Nonino
- 22 ml Fresh lemon juice
- Ice for shaking
- Lemon twist or wheel for garnish
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino and fresh lemon juice.
- Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into a coupe glass or an old-fashioned glass filled with ice.
- Garnish: Add a lemon twist or wheel on top for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Zero-proof version: Use non-alcoholic bourbon or a combination of almond syrup and apple cider vinegar to replace the Amaro Nonino. Replace Aperol with non-alcoholic Aperol or a splash of grapefruit juice and finish with fresh lemon juice. Add some club soda for a little fizz and garnish with a lemon twist for that signature refreshing finish.
