Barsys
Paper Plane
About
The Paper Plane cocktail might look simple, but it’s one of the most perfectly balanced modern classics. Created in 2007 by bartender Sam Ross in New York, it was named after the M.I.A. track “Paper Planes” that was topping playlists at the time.
What makes it special is its equal-parts formula. Bourbon gives it warmth, amaro brings herbal depth, aperitif liqueur adds a citrusy bitter edge, and fresh lemon juice brightens the whole mix. The result is tart, refreshing, and just complex enough to keep you coming back for another round.
It’s sleek, modern, and approachable - the kind of cocktail that feels like it’s been around forever even though it’s barely two decades old.
Shaken or Stirred? Shaken. Citrus demands a hard shake to integrate with the spirits and add that crisp edge.
What You'll Need
For one Paper Plane cocktail:
- 22 ml bourbon whiskey
- 22 ml amaro liqueur
- 22 ml aperitif liqueur (Aperol is classic)
- 22 ml fresh lemon juice
- Crushed ice
Optional garnish: A thin lemon twist or a tiny paper plane clipped to the glass for a playful touch.
Pro tip: Always use fresh lemon juice. Bottled will flatten the drink and ruin the balance.
How to Make It
Prep time: 5 minutes
Skill level: Beginner-friendly but precision matters
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add bourbon, amaro, aperitif liqueur, and lemon juice.
- Shake hard for 10 -15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass over crushed ice.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or a paper plane if you want to impress.
Using Barsys?
With Barsys 360 cocktail maker, equal-parts cocktails like the Paper Plane are effortless. Load in your bourbon, amaro, and aperitif liqueur, let Barsys pour precise measures, and finish with lemon juice before shaking. Perfect every time.
For the full recipe, download the Barsys App.
The Barsys Edge
An equal-parts cocktail leaves no room for sloppy pouring. Barsys ensures precision, keeping the harmony of bitter, sweet, and sour exactly where it should be.
Sip Setting
Perfect for after-work happy hours, dinner parties, or as a conversation starter when you want to show off something more modern than a Negroni.
Garnish Game
Classic is a lemon twist, but the real showstopper is a paper plane garnish clipped to the rim. Simple, playful, and unforgettable.
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FAQs
What is a Paper Plane cocktail made of?
Equal parts bourbon, amaro, aperitif liqueur, and fresh lemon juice.
What amaro works best?
Amaro Nonino is the classic choice, but Montenegro or Averna can work in a pinch.
Can I batch Paper Planes?
Yes. Combine the spirits in equal parts, keep chilled, and add fresh lemon juice when shaking.
Is the Paper Plane cocktail strong?
It’s balanced. Bourbon gives backbone, but the citrus and liqueurs make it smooth and approachable.
Can I make a Paper Plane with Barsys?
Absolutely. Barsys nails equal parts every time - shake with lemon juice and you’re set.