Paper Plane Cocktail Made with Rye Whiskey Recipe

Paper Plane Cocktail Made with Rye Whiskey Recipe

The Paper Plane cocktail is a delightful choice for both new and seasoned whiskey lovers, offering a sophisticated mixed drink experience. Transforming this classic cocktail with rye whiskey brings a spicy twist that packs a punch. Here's your step-by-step guide to mixing this flavorful concoction:

Ingredients

  • 3/4 ounce rye whiskey
  • 3/4 ounce Aperol
  • 3/4 ounce Amaro Nonino
  • 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Ice

Instructions

  1. Gather your tools: To begin, you'll need a cocktail shaker, a jigger, and a strainer. Make sure you have a chilled coupe glass ready to serve your creation.
  2. Combine the ingredients: Pour the rye whiskey, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and freshly squeezed lemon juice into the cocktail shaker. The equal parts make it simple to remember and delightful to enjoy.
  3. Shake it up: Add ice to the shaker, and then shake vigorously for about 10 to 15 seconds. This will ensure that the ingredients are well-mixed and perfectly chilled.
  4. Strain and serve: Use the strainer to pour the mixture into your chilled coupe glass.
  5. Garnish (optional): Although a garnish isn't necessary, you can add a small twist of lemon peel to enhance the aroma of the drink.

This Paper Plane cocktail made with rye whiskey balances sweet, bitter, and citrusy flavors, creating a harmonious blend that's a joy to sip. Whether you're toasting a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual evening with friends, this cocktail is bound to impress.

For more insights on selecting the ideal rye for your Paper Plane cocktail, check out the "Best Rye For Cocktails" collection on RyeCentral.com.

To craft your Paper Plane cocktail, you'll need a few essential barware items and accessories. Here's a quick list to get you started:

  • Cocktail Shaker: A must-have to ensure all the ingredients are well-blended.
  • Jigger: This helps measure your ingredients precisely.
  • Fine Mesh Strainer: Ensures your cocktail is silky smooth by catching any ice shards or pulp.
  • Coupe Glass: Perfect for serving your Paper Plane with style.
  • Bar Spoon: Handy for stirring and adjusting flavors if needed.

You can find all these tools and more in the Barware Section on RyeCentral.com. Whether you're setting up your bar for the first time or looking to upgrade your collection, our selection has everything you need.

  1. Rye Whiskey: The backbone of the Paper Plane cocktail, giving it a robust and spicy character that complements the other ingredients.
  2. Aperol: An Italian aperitif with a vibrant orange hue and a unique bittersweet flavor that adds depth and balance to the drink.
  3. Amaro Nonino: This amaro provides a complex herbal bitterness and sweetness, helping to create a well-rounded cocktail.
  4. Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds a bright and tangy citrus note that enhances and ties together the flavors of the whiskey and liqueurs.
  5. Chilled Coupe Glass: Essential for serving, ensuring the cocktail stays perfectly cool and offers an elegant presentation.
  6. Cocktail Shaker: Used to mix all the ingredients thoroughly and chill the cocktail with the right amount of dilution.
  7. Fine Mesh Strainer: Ensures a smooth final pour by catching any ice shards or lemon pulp, resulting in a clean, crisp drink.

Frequently Asked Questions about Paper Plane Cocktail Made with Rye Whiskey Recipe

Discover everything you need to know about making this delightful cocktail with rye whiskey.

Can I substitute rye whiskey with another type of whiskey?

While possible, using rye whiskey enhances the spicy and robust profile that's signature to the Paper Plane.

What makes a Paper Plane a great choice for beginners?

Its balanced flavors of rye, citrus, and bitters make it an approachable yet sophisticated mixed drink.

Do I need to use fresh lemon juice?

Yes, fresh lemon juice provides the essential tangy brightness that complements the drink's rich ingredients.

Is this cocktail better for special occasions or everyday enjoyment?

It’s perfect for both, offering elegance for celebrations and satisfaction for casual evenings.

Can I prepare the cocktail ahead of time for a party?

While best fresh, you can batch the drink, but shake with ice right before serving for optimal texture.

Do I require a specific brand of rye whiskey for the recipe?

There’s no strict rule; choose one you enjoy, and explore different brands from our Best Rye For Cocktails collection.

The Story Behind RyeCentral

Origins

RyeCentral sprang from a deep-seated passion for all things rye, blossoming into a vibrant community that celebrates this bold and complex grain spirit. Founded by a group of friends in 2015, each passionate about discovering the diverse flavors that rye whiskey brings to the table. They shared a common dream: to create a welcoming space for both newcomers and experienced connoisseurs to explore and enjoy rye whiskey without the pretension often found in spirit circles.

Mission

Our mission at RyeCentral is simple: to be the beacon for rye whiskey enthusiasts, fostering a community founded on shared enjoyment, curiosity, and discovery. We aim to demystify the world of rye, offering insights and stories that celebrate every bottle, glass, and toast. Whether one is just beginning their journey into rye or an avid fan, our goal is to make this space enriching and inclusive, where everyone feels encouraged to explore and savor the nuances of rye.

What Makes RyeCentral Stand Out

Several elements distinguish RyeCentral from the rest. First, our approach is grounded in creating a sense of community. We believe in celebrating every aspect of rye—from its storied history and classic cocktails to innovative new expressions and producers.

We're dedicated to making information accessible, encouraging readers to dive into the world of rye whiskey with excitement and no pressure. This inclusive, approachable stance, coupled with our commitment to authenticity and quality, genuinely sets RyeCentral apart. We cherish the shared experiences, stories, and laughs that a good rye whiskey can inspire, making every bottle a part of this rich tapestry.

Ultimately, RyeCentral isn't just about the whiskey; it's about the people who love it and the connections formed over a shared appreciation for life's simple pleasures.

Paper Plane Cocktail History & More...

The Paper Plane cocktail traces its roots back to 2008, crafted by NYC bartender Sam Ross. Originally conceived as a playful yet sophisticated drink, it emerged as a modern classic, borne from creativity and a love for balance. Inspired by M.I.A's song "Paper Planes," this cocktail is as memorable as its namesake tune, embodying seamless blending and unexpected charm.

What is a Paper Plane Cocktail?

A Paper Plane cocktail is a delightful mix of equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice. This super-sipper stands out for its perfect harmony of sweet, bitter, and sour. It is a refreshing choice for those who revel in the interplay of flavors, achieving a distinctive synergy in every sip.

The Story Behind the Paper Plane Cocktail

The Paper Plane story is not just about a talented bartender pushing art and creativity; it's a journey through flavors, conviviality, and passion. Created in the heart of the cocktail renaissance, the drink blossomed in an era teeming with innovation, setting the stage for many interpretations and sparking curiosity among enthusiasts worldwide.

Why Use Rye Whiskey?

While the original recipe calls for bourbon, using rye whiskey infuses the Paper Plane with an irresistible spice and depth. Rye enriches the cocktail, making it less sweet and more nuanced, highlighting the citric notes in the lemon and balancing the rich, aromatic profile of the amaro.

The Best Rye Whiskey for Paper Plane

Selecting the right rye whiskey is vital for the Paper Plane. Look for a bottle that is smooth yet bold, such as Bulleit Rye or Rittenhouse Rye. These options promise the perfect blend of warmth, spice, and complexity, elevating your drink from delightful to extraordinary.

Paper Plane Cocktail Variations to Try

While tradition is treasured, experimenting with Paper Plane variations fuels discovery. Consider swapping Aperol for a different bitter aperitif or introducing an herbal liqueur. Embrace your inner mixologist—create a version with elderflower liqueur or infuse the drink with bitters for a twist that tempts the palate.

Join the RyeCentral Community

At RyeCentral, we celebrate exploration, toasting to the shared joy and stories unraveled in every glass. We invite you to join our community, where curiosity leads the way. Whether you're concocting Paper Plane variations or diving into rye-filled adventures, there's a seat at our table, ready for you.

Back to blog

Leave a comment