Paper Plane
Going by different names in different countries, this type of liqueur is common around the world and can vary in ingredients and alcohol content, but is almost always bitter, sweet and complex in flavour.
7 min
5 min
2 min
1 ×
¾ oz Bourbon
¾ oz Amaro* – Amaro Nonino is the original amaro called for here, but I prefer using Amaro Averna
¾ oz Aperol
¾ oz Lemon - fresh squeezed
The undertone of bitter citrus in Amaro Nonino specifically is a more orangey flavour, creating a light, refreshing yet complex interplay of the depth of the bourbon, the slightly bitter fruitiness of the Aperol (derived from rhubarb) and freshly squeezed lemon in this modern cocktail. Depending on where you live, you may not be able to find Amaro Nonino, but perhaps you can get Averna or even Montenegro, in which case I’d say you should still try this drink. A Paper Plane with Averna has a deeper, almost cola-like flavour. Difford’s Guide describes the overall flavour of Averna as ‘Bittersweet and spicy with cinnamon, cola, bitter orange and chocolate notes predominating.’ The caramelly, dark molasses of bourbon and fresh bitter notes of Aperol are heightened and complimented by these flavours. The finished drink with Averna is still refreshing and easy to drink but more along the lines of how a cola drink with a wedge of lime would be. A Paper Plane is easy to make, easy to drink, and a delicious introduction to bitter digestifs.
Directions:
- Combine in a cocktail shaker, add ice, shake vigorously and serve in a chilled cocktail glass.
*Amaro is an Italian herbal liqueur. Flavoured with a variety of herbs and roots, amaro are often served as an after dinner digestif.
