Elevate Your Cocktail Hour with the Paper Plane Spritz

Looking to upgrade your cocktail repertoire? The Paper Plane Spritz is the answer! This sparkling variation on the classic Paper Plane cocktail is both refreshing and sophisticated. Combining the boldness of bourbon and Amaro with the vibrant zest of Aperol and lemon, topped with bubbly sparkling wine, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to experience a drink that’s perfect for any occasion.

Spritzes are undeniably trending, and for good reason! From the classic Spritz Veneziano to the vibrant Pink Gin Spritz, these effervescent beverages are synonymous with summer. Their lighter profile and lower alcohol content make them ideal for enjoying under the sun, all day long. Simultaneously, Amari are gaining popularity, adding layers of depth and complexity to modern mixed drinks.

The Paper Plane Spritz perfectly marries these two trends. It combines the irresistible allure of an Aperol spritz with the complex, bittersweet symphony of the iconic Paper Plane cocktail. The result is a wonderfully refreshing and balanced beverage that’s perfect for both casual sipping and celebratory toasts. And don’t forget the whimsical paper plane garnish, adding an extra touch of charm to your drink!

With its bright citrus notes, herbal undertones, and invigorating fizz, the Paper Plane Spritz is both elegant and approachable. Whether you’re hosting a summer soiree or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers exceptional flavor with a light and celebratory feel. Ready to elevate your cocktail game to new heights? Let’s get mixing!

What Sets the Paper Plane Spritz Apart? Cocktail vs. Spritz

The original Paper Plane cocktail is a robust, stirred drink, offering a velvety texture and a substantial kick. The Paper Plane Spritz, however, is designed to be lighter, more effervescent, and with a lower alcohol content, making it ideal for leisurely sipping. The key differences lie in the proportions and additions. The Spritz version uses less bourbon and introduces sparkling wine for that signature bubbly character. Served over ice in a wine glass or rocks glass, it becomes a more approachable and sessionable drink.

Unveiling the Aperol Spritz: A Classic Italian Aperitivo

The Aperol Spritz, pronounced “AH-peh-rawl sprits,” is a beloved Italian cocktail typically enjoyed during aperitivo hour—that magical time after work when Italians gather to unwind. This iconic drink is built upon three core components: three parts wine-based sparkling beverage (often Prosecco), two parts Aperol, and a splash of soda water. While some variations incorporate Prosecco or even Champagne, Aperol remains the constant, defining ingredient.

Aperol itself falls on the sweeter end of the Amaro spectrum, boasting prominent orange flavors. When combined with the tartness of lemon, the strength of bourbon, and the effervescence of sparkling wine, Aperol creates a harmonious balance within this cocktail. For a delightful floral twist, consider trying the Elderflower Aperol Spritz.

Gather Your Ingredients: The Paper Plane Spritz Shopping List

To craft the perfect Paper Plane Spritz, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Brut Sparkling Wine: This forms the base of the spritz, providing the essential bubbles. For a lighter option, you can substitute with club soda.
Aperol: Originating from Italy, Aperol is an orange-red liqueur known for its slightly bitter and refreshingly light profile. With an alcohol content of just 11%, it’s infused with herbs and roots, delivering distinctive orange and rhubarb flavors.
Bourbon: A quality bourbon adds depth and warmth to the cocktail.
Amaro: This bitter liqueur is key to the Paper Plane’s unique flavor. Amaro Nonino is often recommended, but other varieties, like Amaro Sirene, can also work well. Campari and Aperol themselves belong to the Amaro family. Amari are traditionally enjoyed as digestifs, served neat or over ice after a meal.
Fresh Lemon Juice: The bright acidity of fresh lemon juice balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Lemon Twist: For an elegant and aromatic garnish.

Step-by-Step: Mixing Your Paper Plane Spritz

Follow these simple instructions to create your own Paper Plane Spritz:

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro, and fresh lemon juice.
Shake well until the shaker feels thoroughly chilled.
Strain the mixture into a wine glass or large rocks glass filled with ice.
Top with sparkling wine and gently stir to combine.
Garnish with a lemon twist and a mini paper plane for a playful finishing touch.

Recipe Notes and Expert Tips for the Perfect Spritz

Chill Your Ingredients: Ensure that your bourbon, Aperol, Amaro, and sparkling wine are well-chilled before mixing. This will significantly enhance the drink’s refreshing quality.
Experiment with Variations: Feel free to explore different types of sparkling wine to find your favorite combination. Some adventurous mixologists even add muddled fruit, such as strawberries, to the base of the drink for added complexity.

Crafting the Miniature Paper Plane Garnish

Add a touch of whimsy to your Paper Plane Spritz by creating a mini paper plane garnish. Simply fold a small (approximately 1.5″) rectangle of decorative paper, following standard paper airplane instructions. To secure it to the glass rim, make a small slit in the bottom of the plane.

Explore More Refreshing Cocktail Recipes

Looking for more light and effervescent cocktail inspiration? Try these other fantastic Spritz variations:

Spritz Veneziano
Pink Gin Spritz
Italian Martini Spritz
Elderflower Aperol Spritz

Paper Plane Spritz Recipe

Equipment

Cocktail shaker

Ingredients

2 oz brut sparkling wine
1 oz Aperol
¾ oz bourbon
¾ oz Amaro (I used Amaro Sirene, but Amaro Nonino is also great)
¾ oz fresh lemon juice
Lemon twist and mini paper plane for garnish

Instructions

Add all ingredients except the champagne and garnishes into a shaker with ice and shake.
Strain into a fluted glass with ice. Top with the champagne and stir. Garnish with lemon twist and paper plane.

Nutrition

Notes

To make the mini paper plane for the garnish, I cut a small 1 1/2” rectangle from striped paper and followed the regular instructions for making paper planes. I then cut a small slit on the bottom to fit onto the glass rim.

Share your Paper Plane Spritz creations with us on Instagram using the hashtag #sugarandclothloves. We can’t wait to see what you come up with! Find even more delicious and easy recipes right here!