From Classic to Creative : Paper Plane Cocktail
The Paper Plane cocktail has quickly gained popularity in the cocktail scene, and for good reason. This delightful drink is a perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and citrus flavors, making it a hit among both cocktail enthusiasts and bartenders alike. In this article, we will explore the origins of the Paper Plane cocktail, its key ingredients, and how it has evolved into a modern classic. We will also discuss some creative variations of the cocktail that you can try at home or order at your favorite cocktail bar.
Table of Contents
Origins of the Paper Plane Cocktail
The Paper Plane cocktail was created by legendary bartender Sam Ross in 2007. Ross, who was working at Milk & Honey in New York at the time, was asked by Toby Maloney to come up with an original cocktail for The Violet Hour in Chicago. Ross drew inspiration from a song by M.I.A. called “Paper Planes” and created a cocktail that he initially named the Paper Airplane.
The original recipe for the Paper Plane cocktail called for bourbon, lemon juice, Amaro Nonino, and Campari. However, Ross later realized that the drink was slightly too bitter and decided to substitute Aperol for the Campari. This change resulted in a more balanced and delicious cocktail, which eventually became known as the Paper Plane.
Key Ingredients of the Paper Plane Cocktail
The Paper Plane cocktail is known for its equal parts ratio of ingredients, which makes it easy to remember and recreate. The key ingredients of the cocktail are:
- Maker’s Mark Bourbon: This smooth and flavorful bourbon serves as the base spirit for the Paper Plane cocktail. Its rich caramel notes complement the other ingredients perfectly.
- Aperol Liqueur: Aperol is an Italian liqueur known for its bright orange color and slightly bitter taste. It adds a refreshing citrus flavor to the cocktail and balances out the sweetness.
- Amaro Nonino Quintessentia Liqueur: Amaro Nonino is a herbal liqueur from Italy that brings depth and complexity to the Paper Plane cocktail. It adds a touch of bitterness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: The acidity of fresh lemon juice provides a tart and tangy element to the cocktail, balancing out the sweetness of the other ingredients.
The Evolution of the Paper Plane Cocktail
Since its creation, the Paper Plane cocktail has gained recognition and popularity in the cocktail community. Bartenders all over the world have embraced the cocktail and put their own creative twists on it. The equal parts ratio of ingredients has inspired bartenders to experiment with different spirits, liqueurs, and flavor combinations.
One popular variation of the Paper Plane cocktail is the Naked and Famous, created by Joaquín Simó. This variation substitutes mezcal for the bourbon, yellow Chartreuse for the Amaro Nonino, and lime juice for the lemon juice. The result is a smoky and herbaceous twist on the classic Paper Plane, with a vibrant green color.
Another creative variation is the Amen Corner, crafted by Nick Brown. This version replaces the bourbon with rye whiskey, adds fresh mint, and uses Amaro Montenegro instead of Amaro Nonino. The addition of mint adds a refreshing herbal note to the cocktail, making it perfect for warm weather.
How to Make a Perfect Paper Plane Cocktail
Now that you know the key ingredients and some creative variations of the Paper Plane cocktail, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delightful drink. Here’s a simple and foolproof recipe to help you create the perfect Paper Plane cocktail at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 part Maker’s Mark Bourbon
- 1 part Aperol Liqueur
- 1 part Amaro Nonino Quintessentia Liqueur
- 1 part fresh lemon juice
- Lemon zest or twist for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add Maker’s Mark Bourbon, Aperol Liqueur, Amaro Nonino Quintessentia Liqueur, and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to combine ingredients and let cool..
- Strain the mixture into a coupe glass, using a fine mesh strainer to remove any ice or pulp.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon zest or a lemon twist.
- Serve and enjoy!
Tips for a Perfect Paper Plane Cocktail
To elevate your Paper Plane cocktail-making skills, here are some tips and tricks that will ensure you create a drink that is balanced, flavorful, and visually appealing:
1. Double Straining for Consistency
After shaking the cocktail, use a Hawthorne strainer to strain it into your serving glass. To achieve a consistent texture, hold a fine mesh strainer over the glass while pouring the cocktail. This will remove any small ice shards or pulp, resulting in a smooth and refined drink.
2. Understanding Cocktail Measurements
In cocktail recipes, the term “1 part” refers to the basis for measuring ingredients. In the case of the Paper Plane cocktail, all the measurements are equal, meaning you can use any standard unit of measurement (e.g., ounces or milliliters) for your ingredients. For instance, if you’re using 1 ounce of bourbon, you would use 1 ounce of each of the other ingredients.
3. Choosing the Right Glassware
To present your Paper Plane cocktail in an elegant and sophisticated manner, consider serving it in a coupe glass. Coupe glasses have a classic and timeless appeal, making them perfect for showcasing sours and other up-style drinks.
4. Exploring Different Amaro Options
While Amaro Nonino Quintessentia is the traditional choice for the Paper Plane cocktail, don’t be afraid to experiment with other amaro liqueurs. Amaro Montenegro, Averna, or Cynar can all add unique flavor profiles to your cocktail. Each amaro brings its own distinct herbal notes and levels of bitterness, allowing you to customize the drink to your preference.
Conclusion
The Paper Plane cocktail has undoubtedly earned its place as a modern classic in the cocktail world. Its perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and citrus flavors has captivated bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore creative variations, the Paper Plane cocktail is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. So, shake up a Paper Plane and embark on a journey of flavor and creativity. Cheers!
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