Updated on: 6/3/2025
The Origin of the Bellini Cocktail and Its Lasting Influence
Few cocktails capture Italian elegance like the Bellini. Created in Venice in the mid-20th century, its story is as bright as the peach hue in every glass. To understand the Bellini’s allure, it’s essential to look at its birthplace, the iconic Harry’s Bar, and the larger cultural currents at play.
Venetian Roots: Harry’s Bar and Giuseppe Cipriani
The Bellini’s creation traces to Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of Harry’s Bar on Venice’s Grand Canal. In 1948, Cipriani blended white peach purée with sparkling wine for a seasonal special. Its unique color reminded him of the pink tones used by the Renaissance painter Giovanni Bellini, inspiring the drink’s name. What began as a local celebration of summer fruit blossomed into a global symbol of Italian joie de vivre.
Italian Culture and the Rise of the Bellini
Italy’s hospitality culture forms the Bellini’s backdrop. Aperitivo—Italy’s ritual of light drinks before dinner—places fresh ingredients at the forefront. The Bellini’s emphasis on ripe peaches and crisp prosecco reflects this commitment to seasonality and harmony. Unlike the complex American cocktails of the time, the Bellini set the stage for an era of lighter, fruit-forward drinks that are easy to prepare yet carry unmistakable finesse.
Cipriani Bellini Recipe: The Classic Way
The original Bellini recipe by Cipriani called for just two components: white peach purée and dry prosecco. Preserving the simplicity of the Venetian tradition, the preparation avoids additives, keeping flavors pure. While fresh white peaches may be seasonal, using high-quality peach purée is the next best approach. Opt for dry, not overly sweet, prosecco to respect the drink’s balance.
- 60 ml fresh white peach purée (strained for smoothness)
- 90 ml dry prosecco, well chilled
- Pour the white peach purée into a chilled flute glass.
- Slowly top with prosecco, stirring gently to blend.
- Garnish with a thin slice of peach, if desired.
From Venetian Icon to Global Aperitif
Cipriani’s Bellini became a favorite of artists, writers, and Hollywood stars who frequented Harry’s Bar. Its fame quickly spread, joining the shortlist of cocktails that define aperitif culture around the world. As prosecco production flourished and Italian ingredients gained international fans, the Bellini evolved into a versatile template—swapping in yellow peaches or even raspberries for seasonal twists.
Respecting the Legacy: Tips for an Authentic Bellini
- Use ripe white peaches for the clearest, most fragrant purée.
- Chill both purée and prosecco thoroughly before mixing.
- Avoid added sugar or liqueur—let the fruit and sparkling wine carry the drink.
- Serve in slender flute glasses to maintain bubbles and highlight the elegant aroma.
From Harry’s Bar to rooftop brunches worldwide, the Bellini’s legacy endures. Its blend of artful origin, effortless preparation, and pure refreshment embodies the heart of Italian cocktail culture—one peachy pour at a time.