Sam Ross, renowned for his innovative cocktail creations at iconic bars like Attaboy and Milk & Honey, discusses the Paper Plane cocktail. He shares its intriguing origins, including a late-night recipe exchange and the pivotal role of Amaro Nonino. The conversation dives into the blend of culinary and cocktail cultures, the craft of mixology, and the art of balancing flavors. Ross also touches on the rise of canned cocktails and the significance of storytelling in the drinking experience. Perfect for cocktail enthusiasts!
Sam Ross's Paper Plane cocktail combines equal parts of whiskey, Amaro Nonino, Aperol, and lemon juice, showcasing innovative flavor integration.
The resurgence in popularity of the Paper Plane highlights drinkers' growing appreciation for bitter flavors and diverse cocktail ingredients.
Concerns about intellectual property in cocktail creation emphasize the need for recognition and respect for bartenders' artistry in a competitive industry.
Deep dives
History and Uniqueness of George Dickle Distillery
George Dickle Distillery, one of Tennessee's oldest distilleries, has built its reputation by rethinking American whiskey. The distillery combines fresh spring water with traditional distillation techniques, allowing it to produce both Tennessee whiskey and bourbon, offering a distinct contrast to other spirits. Its commitment to quality is reflected in the high age statements of its products, often delivering exceptional value for whiskey connoisseurs. The distillery has earned substantial acclaim and loyalty among fans of American whiskey, making its partnership with cocktail enthusiasts particularly noteworthy.
The Creation of the Paper Plane Cocktail
The Paper Plane cocktail, created by bartender Sam Ross, has become one of the most requested cocktails, marking a significant milestone in cocktail culture. The cocktail's inception arose during a late-night brainstorming session, where Ross decided to play with equal parts of whiskey, Amaro Nonino, Aperol, and lemon juice, integrating elements from classic drinks. Its name, inspired by the M.I.A. song ‘Paper Planes,’ reflects the cocktail's innovative spirit and pop culture connection. Ross’s intention to craft a refreshing drink ensured it would appeal to broader palates, making it a staple in bars worldwide.
Popularity and Cultural Impact
The Paper Plane cocktail has witnessed a significant resurgence in popularity, especially in contemporary cocktail culture. Sam Ross noted that this increase was partly due to changing palates, with drinkers developing greater appreciation for bitter flavors and diverse ingredients. The cocktail also gained visibility through media representation, featuring in popular television shows and urban bars, securing its spot in drink menus across the globe. Ross emphasized that the drink serves as an accessible introduction to whiskey and Amaro, contributing to its widespread acceptance.
Controversy Over Cocktail Ownership
As cocktail culture evolves, the question of intellectual property for well-loved drinks like the Paper Plane becomes increasingly relevant. While bartenders create iconic cocktails, the challenge of protecting these creations in a commercially driven industry remains. Ross expressed frustration with cocktails being copied without credit, underscoring the need for better recognition in an industry where many drinks derive from collaborative creativity. This conversation not only highlights the industry’s shifting norms but also promotes dialogue on respecting artistry in modern concoctions.
The Importance of Quality Ingredients
The success of the Paper Plane cocktail hinges on using high-quality ingredients, particularly Amaros and whiskeys. Ross emphasized that Amaro Nonino is crucial for the drink’s signature profile, and substituting lower-quality Amaros detracts significantly from its flavor. He also highlighted that bourbon needs to be at a certain proof level to hold up against other ingredients and achieve the desired balance of sweetness, acidity, and bitterness. This focus on ingredient quality underlines the fundamental principles of cocktail creation and the ongoing appreciation for craft in the industry.
Future Endeavors and Innovations
Looking forward, Sam Ross is set to launch canned versions of the Paper Plane and Penicillin cocktails in collaboration with Tip Top Cocktails, bringing these beloved drinks to a broader audience. This project is notable as it aims to preserve the integrity of the original cocktails while making them more accessible to cocktail enthusiasts. The partnership reflects a growing trend of premium canned cocktails, combining convenience with quality. By participating in this innovation, Ross continues to celebrate and evolve the legacy of his contributions to the cocktail world.
Sam Ross, of Attaboy, Milk & Honey, Temple Bar, Good Guy's, and general cocktail creation fame joins us to discuss one of said creations: the Paper Plane. Vying for position with the Penicillin as one of Ross's most famous and beloved drinks, the Paper Plane took off by employing the Last Word template and introducing some then-little-known ingredients, including non-negotiable Amaro Nonino. Listen on (or read below) to learn Ross's Paper Plane recipe — and don’t forget to leave a rating, review, and subscribe!
Sam Ross's Paper Plane Recipe
Ingredients
- ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice
- ¾ ounce Aperol
- ¾ ounce Amaro Nonino
- ¾ ounce bourbon (above 90 proof)
Directions
1. Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with one large cube of ice.
