The modern-classic Paper Plane, equal parts whiskey, Aperol, amaro and lemon, made with Krampus Herbal Liqueur in place of Amaro Nonino.
The Paper Plane is one of the best-loved modern cocktails: four ingredients in equal parts, bittersweet, bright and easy to remember. The classic calls for bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino and lemon.
This version uses Krampus Bottled in Bond Rye and Krampus Herbal Liqueur in place of the bourbon and amaro.
Ingredients
- ¾ oz Krampus Bottled in Bond Rye (or bourbon)
- ¾ oz Krampus Herbal Liqueur
- ¾ oz Aperol
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
Directions
- Shake all ingredients hard with ice.
- Double-strain into a chilled coupe.
Glass: Coupe · Garnish: None, or a small paper plane
Tip
Amaro Nonino is honeyed and bittersweet, so Krampus's honey and spice slot into its place naturally. Keep all four parts equal and measured; the drink is about balance. For more on Krampus as an amaro, see our guide What Is Amaro?
Variations
For a winter Paper Plane, use Barrel-Aged Krampus. For a bigger whiskey backbone, use 1 oz rye and ¾ oz of everything else.
A Brief History of the Paper Plane
Bartender Sam Ross created the Paper Plane around 2007 for the opening menu at The Violet Hour in Chicago, naming it after the M.I.A. song "Paper Planes," which was playing constantly that summer.
Its equal-parts format echoes the Prohibition-era Last Word, and it became a fixture on cocktail menus around the world within a few years.
Why Make It With Krampus
Amaro Nonino is an Italian amaro known for its honeyed, gently bitter character, and it can be hard to find and pricey. Krampus is built on raw honey, roasted hazelnut and warming spice, so it fills the same role with a warmer, nuttier edge. Paired with 100% rye instead of bourbon, the drink gets a peppery backbone that keeps all that honey in balance. For more, read What Is Amaro?
FAQ
What can I use instead of Amaro Nonino?
Look for a honeyed, lightly bitter herbal liqueur. Krampus Herbal Liqueur works well and adds roasted hazelnut and spice.
Should a Paper Plane use bourbon or rye?
The original uses bourbon. Rye makes it spicier and drier, which suits the extra honey in Krampus.