master-cooks | The Fascinating History Of The How The Bellini Cocktail Was Created

The Bellini cocktail, a delightful blend of Prosecco and peach purée, traces its origins to the vibrant city of Venice, Italy. Its creation is credited to Giuseppe Cipriani, the founder of the renowned Harry's Bar, in the mid-20th century. The inspiration for the cocktail came from Cipriani's desire to capture the essence of summer through a refreshing and light beverage. The drink is named after the Venetian artist Giovanni Bellini, whose paintings often featured a warm, pastel hue that reminded Cipriani of the drink’s pinkish color. Initially, the Bellini was made using white peaches, which were pureed and then mixed with the sparkling wine. The choice of these peaches was significant, as they were abundant during summer, and their sweetness perfectly complemented the dry Prosecco. Over time, the Bellini gained international acclaim, becoming a symbol of Italian elegance and sophistication. Its popularity spread beyond the borders of Italy, finding a place on cocktail menus worldwide. Today, while variations exist, the traditional Bellini remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its simplicity and the way it encapsulates a slice of Venetian culture and history in a single, effervescent glass.

The craftsmanship of the Bellini

In contrast to the serendipitous creation of the Negroni Sbagliato, the Bellini was crafted with deliberate intention. Giuseppe Cipriani's cocktail embodies Italian essence, featuring white peaches that flourish in the countryside during summer. He pureed these peaches to achieve a delicate, smooth texture, which was then blended with prosecco. This selection of white wine was a thoughtful choice, as its inherent floral and fruity notes complement the peach flavor beautifully. It’s no wonder the Bellini became a sensation, remaining a sophisticated summertime treat. The ideal ratio is two parts prosecco to one part peach puree, gently stirred in a chilled flute.

The beauty of the Bellini lies in its simplicity, which is why many enjoy pre-mixed versions available in stores. If you opt for a pre-mix, consider the original Cipriani or Canella brands, both of which are DOCG-certified, ensuring high-quality ingredients and production standards. Canella even incorporates a hint of raspberry into its blend. Bellinis are also easy to whip up at home using leftover canned peach juice, making them a delightful aperitivo before a mid-afternoon cicchetti. Thanks to Cipriani, you can enjoy a Bellini whenever you're feeling inspired or in the mood for a sweet cocktail.

The Fascinating History Of The How The Bellini Cocktail Was Created

The craftsmanship of the Bellini

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