A Classic Paper Plane Cocktail Recipe
A Classic Paper Plane Cocktail Recipe
As a longtime cocktail enthusiast, I have had the pleasure of trying and creating countless cocktails. While I have my favorite cocktails, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to add to my repertoire. Recently, I stumbled upon a modern classic cocktail that has quickly become one of my all-time favorites – the Paper Plane.
The Paper Plane cocktail is a perfect blend of herbal notes, bitter flavors, and a touch of sweetness, making it a well-balanced and refreshing drink. Inspired by the classic Paper Plane paper airplane, this cocktail is a perfect choice for happy hours, date nights, or even a cozy night in. So, let's dive into the history, ingredients, and simple steps of making this delicious cocktail.
A Brief History of the Paper Plane Cocktail
The Paper Plane cocktail was created by bartender Sam Ross in 2007 at the famous New York City cocktail bar, Little Branch. Ross was experimenting with different amaro (herbal liqueur) and came up with this unique blend of equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino Quintessentia, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. This cocktail quickly gained popularity and has become a staple on cocktail menus all over the world.
The Ingredients You Will Need
To make a Paper Plane cocktail, you will need the following ingredients:
3/4 ounce bourbon whiskey (I recommend using Buffalo Trace or any other higher-proof bourbon for a more robust flavor)
3/4 ounce Aperol (an Italian amaro with a bitter orange flavor)
3/4 ounce Amaro Nonino Quintessentia (an herbal liqueur with notes of alpine herbs and honey)
3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
Orange peel or lemon twist, for garnish
You can also play around with the ingredients and try different amaro variations, such as Amaro Montenegro, Amaro Averna, or Green Chartreuse, to find your perfect flavor profile.
Steps to Make the Paper Plane Cocktail
1. Start by chilling your cocktail glass. You can use a coupe glass or any other serving glass of your choice. You can chill the glass by filling it with ice cubes and letting it sit while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
2. In a cocktail shaker, add equal parts of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino Quintessentia, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. You can also add a dash of maraschino liqueur for an extra layer of sweetness.
3. Add ice cubes to the shaker and give it a good shake. The ice will dilute the cocktail and bring all the flavors together.
4. Double strain the mixture into the chilled coupe glass using a mesh strainer. This will ensure that no ice or small fruit particles make their way into your drink, giving it a smooth texture.
5. Garnish with an orange peel or a lemon twist for a pop of color and an extra burst of citrus flavor.
6. Your Paper Plane cocktail is now ready to be enjoyed! Cheers!
Why the Paper Plane Cocktail is a Must-Try
The Paper Plane cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet, bitter, and herbal flavors, making it a great option for those who enjoy a more complex cocktail. The bourbon brings a sweet and smooth flavor, while the Aperol adds a bitter and orangey taste. The Amaro Nonino Quintessentia contributes an herbal and honey-like flavor, and the lemon juice adds a fresh and tangy kick. Together, these ingredients create a beautiful balance of flavors that will take your taste buds to new heights.
Tips for Making the Perfect Paper Plane Cocktail
- Fresh lemon juice is a crucial ingredient in this cocktail, so make sure to use it instead of bottled lemon juice for the best flavor.
- If you prefer a less bitter flavor, you can adjust the ratio of Aperol to 1/2 ounce instead of 3/4 ounce.
- For a stronger and more robust flavor, you can use a higher-proof bourbon or increase the amount of bourbon to 1 full ounce.
- To make a mini Paper Plane cocktail, simply cut the measurements in half and serve it in a smaller glass.
- You can also try experimenting with different garnishes, such as an orange slice or a sprig of fresh herbs, to add a unique touch to your cocktail.
In Conclusion
Whether you are a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just starting to build your home bar, the Paper Plane cocktail is a must-try for everyone. With its simple steps, beautiful balance of flavors, and unique history, it is sure to become your new favorite cocktail. So, gather the ingredients, shake up a Paper Plane, and enjoy this modern classic cocktail at your next happy hour or cocktail party. Cheers to trying new cocktails and discovering your new favorite!
A Classic Paper Plane Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 3/4 oz bourbon whiskey (e.g., Buffalo Trace)
- 3/4 oz Aperol
- 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino Quintessentia
- 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Orange peel or lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions
- Chill your coupe glass by filling it with ice cubes.
- Combine bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino Quintessentia, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker.
- Add ice cubes to the shaker.
- Shake well to mix and chill the ingredients.
- Double strain the mixture into the chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with an orange peel or lemon twist.
- Serve and enjoy your Paper Plane cocktail! Cheers!
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