This Classic Bellini Cocktail is made with only two ingredients, peaches and Prosecco. An Italian drink that is perfect for brunch or as an aperitif. Salute!

bellini cocktail in a flute glass with a slice of peach

When it comes to Summertime fruit, you can’t beat a juicy sweet peach. If you have ever baked with peaches, whether in a Cake, Sweet Bread or even made some Ice Cream, the next thing on your list should be a Bellini Cocktail!

I’m not a big cocktail drinker, although I do like the occasional beer or glass of wine and yes that includes Prosecco!

But I do remember in Toronto and I was having a brunch get together with friends, we made Mimosas, which I must admit went down very well.

So I thought why not try a Bellini? I already made and loved a very popular Italian drink, an Aperol Spritz . Which is another must try Summertime drink recipe, if you are looking for one.

Bellini cocktail two flute glasses with peach slices

Who invented the Bellini Cocktail?

The Bellini cocktail was originally created in 1948 by Giuseppe Cipriani, in the now famous Harry’s Bar in Venice. The drink was prepared in honour of the painter Giovanni Bellini.

The original colour of the drink which was pink was said to be inspired by the colour of the habit that the saint was wearing in one of Bellini’s paintings.

The drink at that time was prepared with Champagne, white peach nectar and a little raspberry puree, this is what gave the cocktail the pink coloration.

The Bellini became famous, not only because of its sweet fruity taste, but also because of the artists who frequented Harry’s Bar. They began to spread the word around the world of this new and delicious cocktail.

How to make a Bellini Cocktail:

The modern day cocktail is made with two ingredients, three if you wish to add a little raspberry puree to give it that pink tinge, but normally just fresh white peach puree and Prosecco.

The Prosecco should be very cold because no ice is added to the drink. You could probably also refrigerate or even freeze your peach puree for an hour or two before preparing the drink.

The drink is made with one part peach puree and two parts Prosecco. Usually served in Flute glasses.

What to use instead of Prosecco.

If you don’t have Prosecco then you can substitute with either Champagne or your favourite Dry Sparkling Wine, both should be very cold.

how to make a bellini cocktail puree in the jug, in the glass and with prosecco and stirred

What is the difference between White Peaches and Yellow Peaches?

White peaches are considered sweeter than Yellow peaches and are less acidic. Yellow peaches have a bolder flavour than white peaches. If you can’t find white peaches then yes you can substitute yellow peaches in this Bellini Recipe.

What to serve with a Bellini Cocktail:

A Bellini is typically served at a brunch or as an Aperitif. It goes well with cheese, cured meats, or even some salty snacks.

More Summer Drinks

If you are a peach lover or even a cocktail lover I hope you give this Traditional Bellini Cocktail a try and let me know how it was. Salute!