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Half-hour Flight

Half-hour Flight cocktail icon

Flavor Profile: Spicy, citrusy, smoky, bold

The Half-Hour Flight is a bold, smoky riff on the Paper Plane. It keeps the equal-parts structure but swaps out Amaro Nonino for Ancho Reyes — a chili liqueur with rich, savory heat.

This one hits a little harder. The bourbon brings warmth, Aperol keeps it grounded in bittersweet citrus, and the Ancho Reyes adds unexpected depth. It’s balanced, adventurous, and perfect for mezcal or spicy cocktail lovers looking to level up their Paper Plane game.

Half-hour Flight

A bold, spicy riff on the modern classic Paper Plane, the Half-hour Flight swaps Amaro Nonino for Ancho Reyes — transforming the equal-parts formula into something smoky, savory, and seriously satisfying. Its origin may be unclear, but the flavor is unforgettable. If you’re a fan of Ancho Reyes, this is your boarding pass to a whole new take on a modern favorite.

Ingredients

  • 0.75 oz Bourbon
  • 0.75 oz Aperol
  • 0.75 oz Ancho Reyes
  • 0.75 oz Fresh Lemon Juice

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.
  • Shake until well chilled.
  • Fine strain into a chilled coupe glass.
  • Garnish with a lemon peel cut like a paper plane.

Notes

A smoky, spicy take on the Paper Plane, with Ancho Reyes adding bold heat in place of Amaro Nonino. Perfect for pairing with rich dishes or anyone seeking a more adventurous flavor profile. No turbulence here — just smooth, balanced flying.

If you enjoy this, try the Naked & Famous or the Spicy Dead Lady for more smoky and spicy variations.

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