Paper Plane

The Paper Plane cocktail is a modern classic crafted in 2008 by New York bartender Sam Ross for the opening of The Violet Hour in Chicago. Inspired by the Prohibition-era Last Word—an equal-parts mix of gin, lime juice, maraschino liqueur, and green Chartreuse—Ross sought to create a contemporary counterpart. His original recipe combined equal parts bourbon, Campari, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice. However, finding the initial blend overly bitter, Ross substituted Aperol for Campari, achieving a more balanced and approachable flavor profile. The cocktail’s name was inspired by M.I.A.’s song “Paper Planes,” which was popular at the time.

The Paper Plane’s harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and bitter notes quickly gained popularity, becoming a staple in bars across North America, particularly in Toronto. Its equal-parts formula has also inspired numerous variations, including Joaquín Simó’s Naked and Famous, which features mezcal, yellow Chartreuse, Aperol, and lime juice. Today, the Paper Plane is celebrated for its simplicity and depth, solidifying its status as a modern classic in the cocktail world.