Flavor Profile

The Paper Plane offers a balanced medley of flavors. The bourbon provides a subtle warmth, while the Aperol and Amaro Nonino add bitterness and complexity. The fresh lemon juice rounds it out with a refreshing tartness, making it an approachable cocktail with layers of depth.

Fun Facts & Variations

The Paper Plane is celebrated for its perfect symmetry of ingredients, making it easy to mix and consistent in flavor. Variations of the cocktail include substituting the bourbon with other spirits for unique twists, although the original combination is iconic for its balance. For a sweeter profile, some may try swapping Aperol with another amaro or experimenting with different bitters.

Six Essential Facts About the Paper Plane

The Paper Plane cocktail—a perfectly balanced blend of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice—may be one of the best whiskey cocktails you’re not yet drinking. Its vibrant acidity and layered flavors make it refreshing, while its equal-parts simplicity allows it to be easily replicated at home. Here’s everything you need to know about this modern classic, sure to become a staple in your repertoire.

1. Easy to Make, Light on Alcohol, but Rich in Flavor

The Paper Plane is remarkably easy to mix, yet it delivers a nuanced, refreshing flavor profile. Its use of equal parts ingredients creates a cocktail that’s fresh and zesty, yet balanced with just enough depth for autumnal enjoyment. The lower alcohol content, thanks to the Aperol and Amaro, makes it a lighter choice than classic bourbon-forward drinks like the Old Fashioned, ideal for those easing into whiskey cocktails.

2. Born in the Heart of Chicago

Although often associated with New York, the Paper Plane actually originated at The Violet Hour in Chicago in 2008. Bartender Sam Ross, now co-owner of Attaboy in NYC, created it upon request as a summer drink for The Violet Hour’s menu. Inspired by the equal-parts classic Last Word, Ross crafted this cocktail at his Chicago post before bringing it back to Milk & Honey in New York.

3. Originally Made with Campari, Now Defined by Aperol

Initially, Ross created the Paper Plane with Campari. However, the recipe evolved, and Aperol replaced Campari, bringing a softer, more approachable bitterness. While the bourbon, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice have remained core components, the shift to Aperol gave the drink its distinctive, now-signature character.

4. Named After a Popular M.I.A. Song

The cocktail’s name nods to M.I.A.’s hit song "Paper Planes," a track that Ross listened to on repeat while developing the drink. The catchy tune inspired the cocktail’s title, with a nod to the whimsical and fun nature of a “paper plane.”

5. Use Slightly Higher-Proof Bourbon for Optimal Flavor

To achieve the perfect balance, Ross recommends a bourbon with a bit more kick—ideally one that’s 43% to 46% ABV. The slightly higher proof provides body without overpowering the other ingredients, allowing the bourbon to harmonize with the Aperol and Amaro.

6. Shake Lightly for a Chilled, Crisp Finish

Ross advises against overshaking the Paper Plane; a light shake will chill the drink without excessive dilution. The cocktail is best enjoyed cold and slightly crisp, allowing the balanced flavors to shine without becoming watery. As long as you use fresh lemon juice and keep your proportions consistent, you’re on your way to a flawless Paper Plane.

Flavor Profile

The Paper Plane offers a balanced medley of flavors. The bourbon provides a subtle warmth, while the Aperol and Amaro Nonino add bitterness and complexity. The fresh lemon juice rounds it out with a refreshing tartness, making it an approachable cocktail with layers of depth.

Fun Facts & Variations

The Paper Plane is celebrated for its perfect symmetry of ingredients, making it easy to mix and consistent in flavor. Variations of the cocktail include substituting the bourbon with other spirits for unique twists, although the original combination is iconic for its balance. For a sweeter profile, some may try swapping Aperol with another amaro or experimenting with different bitters.

Six Essential Facts About the Paper Plane

The Paper Plane cocktail—a perfectly balanced blend of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice—may be one of the best whiskey cocktails you’re not yet drinking. Its vibrant acidity and layered flavors make it refreshing, while its equal-parts simplicity allows it to be easily replicated at home. Here’s everything you need to know about this modern classic, sure to become a staple in your repertoire.

1. Easy to Make, Light on Alcohol, but Rich in Flavor

The Paper Plane is remarkably easy to mix, yet it delivers a nuanced, refreshing flavor profile. Its use of equal parts ingredients creates a cocktail that’s fresh and zesty, yet balanced with just enough depth for autumnal enjoyment. The lower alcohol content, thanks to the Aperol and Amaro, makes it a lighter choice than classic bourbon-forward drinks like the Old Fashioned, ideal for those easing into whiskey cocktails.

2. Born in the Heart of Chicago

Although often associated with New York, the Paper Plane actually originated at The Violet Hour in Chicago in 2008. Bartender Sam Ross, now co-owner of Attaboy in NYC, created it upon request as a summer drink for The Violet Hour’s menu. Inspired by the equal-parts classic Last Word, Ross crafted this cocktail at his Chicago post before bringing it back to Milk & Honey in New York.

3. Originally Made with Campari, Now Defined by Aperol

Initially, Ross created the Paper Plane with Campari. However, the recipe evolved, and Aperol replaced Campari, bringing a softer, more approachable bitterness. While the bourbon, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice have remained core components, the shift to Aperol gave the drink its distinctive, now-signature character.

4. Named After a Popular M.I.A. Song

The cocktail’s name nods to M.I.A.’s hit song "Paper Planes," a track that Ross listened to on repeat while developing the drink. The catchy tune inspired the cocktail’s title, with a nod to the whimsical and fun nature of a “paper plane.”

5. Use Slightly Higher-Proof Bourbon for Optimal Flavor

To achieve the perfect balance, Ross recommends a bourbon with a bit more kick—ideally one that’s 43% to 46% ABV. The slightly higher proof provides body without overpowering the other ingredients, allowing the bourbon to harmonize with the Aperol and Amaro.

6. Shake Lightly for a Chilled, Crisp Finish

Ross advises against overshaking the Paper Plane; a light shake will chill the drink without excessive dilution. The cocktail is best enjoyed cold and slightly crisp, allowing the balanced flavors to shine without becoming watery. As long as you use fresh lemon juice and keep your proportions consistent, you’re on your way to a flawless Paper Plane.