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Paper Plane
Method
Shaken
Glassware
Coupe
Ice
No ice
Time
3 min

Paper Plane

IBA · New EraIBA classification pending verificationWhiskyEasyEditorial draft

An equal-parts sour of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino and lemon. Bittersweet, citrusy and easy to remember.

Created by Sam Ross

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Ingredients

1 × servings

Volume before dilution: 90 ml

Step by step

  1. 1

    Shake all four ingredients with ice.

  2. 2

    Double-strain into a chilled coupe.

Flavor profile

Sweetness
Acidity
Bitterness
Body
Aroma
Bitter orangeCaramelLemon

Story

Sam Ross created it around 2007–2008, inspired by the Last Word's structure. It took off in Chicago and New York bars and is now a modern classic.

Technical notes

Equal parts demand accurate measuring. Shaking adds aeration that softens the amaro's bitterness.

Serving

To start the evening.

Origin

Attributed · 2007–2008

Attributed to Sam Ross.

Variations

  • Paper Plane de mezcal

    Swap the bourbon for espadín mezcal.

Substitutions

  • Another light, orange-forward amaro if you lack Nonino; the result will change.

Pairings

  • Duck tacos with orange salsa
  • Manchego cheese

Where to drink it

Community reviews

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Sources

Version 1 · Updated October 20, 2026