If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping a drink while watching gondolas drift by on the Grand Canal, the Bellini is your ticket. Born in the iconic Harry’s Bar in Venice, this peach and Prosecco concoction is the essence of Italian glamour and simplicity. Whether you’re planning a brunch, a rooftop party, or simply a “dolce vita” moment, this elegant cocktail brings a pop of summer and a touch of Venice to your glass.
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History of the recipe
The Bellini was invented in the 1940s by Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of Harry’s Bar in Venice. The drink was named after 15th-century painter Giovanni Bellini, inspired by the pink hues in one of his saint paintings. Originally a seasonal specialty when white peaches were in harvest, the Bellini quickly became a global sensation and a favorite among celebrities, writers, and even royalty. Its refreshing balance and artistic inspiration have kept it timeless.
Did you know?
The Bellini remains a menu staple at Harry’s Bar to this day, where legends like Hemingway, Orson Welles, and Peggy Guggenheim once gathered. Modern chefs and mixologists around the world, including Giada De Laurentiis and Nigella Lawson, have featured the Bellini in their Italian-inspired brunch menus. It’s a cocktail that often shows up in films or shows set in Venice or luxury European destinations—always symbolizing celebration and chic simplicity.
Can’t make it to Venice?
Bring the charm of the Venetian Riviera to your own party by serving Bellinis with Italian finger foods like crostini, prosciutto-wrapped melon, or bruschetta. For a modern twist, try freezing peach purée into ice cubes for a chilled version. And for extra Italian flair, serve with a side of classic Italian music and vintage glassware—don’t forget the spritz of elegance!
I am a fan of the glasses Harry’s Bar used. A bit heavier than a champagne glass but still elegant. These are the closest I could find that resembled them. If you have champagne glasses or coupe glasses they will work too.
Set of 4 Glasses. These 14.5 oz beverage glasses are ideal for serving water, juice, iced tea, and other refreshing drinks. Their elegant design makes them suitable for both casual and formal occasions, adding a touch of sophistication to any table setting.
Ready to toast like a Venetian?
Ready to toast like a Venetian? Shake up your brunch game or impress your guests with this elegant Italian favorite. And if you find yourself wandering through Venice one day, be sure to stop by Harry’s Bar and taste the original! Cheers—or as the Italians say, cin cin!
Classic Bellini
Equipment
- Blender or immersion blender
- Fine mesh strainer
- Champagne flutes
Ingredients
- 2 Ripe white peaches peeled and pitted
- 1 tsp Lemon juice fresh
- 1 tsp Sugar optional
- 1 cup Prosecco well chilled
Instructions
- Peel and pit the white peaches, then cut them into small chunks.
- In a blender, purée the peaches with the lemon juice until completely smooth. If your peaches are very sweet, you can skip the sugar. Otherwise, add to taste.
- Strain the purée through a fine mesh sieve for a silky finish.
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of the peach purée into each chilled champagne flute.
- Slowly pour chilled Prosecco over the purée. Stir gently to combine.
- Serve immediately with a peach slice garnish if desired.