Bellini cocktails are a traditionally Italian cocktail that is one of the simplest cocktails for anyone to make. Traditionally they are made with peaches, but you can really take your favorite fruit and make a great Bellini. You only need 2 ingredients for a perfect Bellini.
Ingredient #1: Sparkling Wine - In true tradition, you should choose an Italian Prosecco, a more valued sparkling wine that is made in Italy. You can find a good one between $8-$15 at any major wine or liquor store.
Ingredient #2: Fresh fruit - of your choosing.
How to make a Bellini: Let's use peaches for a traditional Bellini example. Clean and cut your peaches into small pieces, leaving out the pit of the peach. Then simply put your peaches in to a blender and puree them. You want to blend thoroughly so that the puree is very condensed, almost water-like in consistency. You are now ready to make a perfect Bellini. Pour about 3-4 oz of Prosecco into champagne flute. Then simply take 3-4 oz of peach puree and pour in to champagne flute. Naturally the puree will mix with the ice cold prosecco and you will have a fabulous light and perfect summer cocktail. Garnish with a fresh peach slice.
A couple of hints for your Peach Bellini:
• I would peel your peaches as the skin may add a bit of bitterness to the puree.
• You may add a little bit of water to the blending process if you need to soften the puree.You want to blend thoroughly so that the puree is very condensed, almost water-like in consistency.
• You may also want to add some sugar in the raw to your puree if you like a sweeter cocktail. A bit of sugar will enhance the peach flavor.
• If possible, do your puree earlier in the day and keep very cold until ready to serve. Keep Prosecco very cold as well.
• You can also serve Bellinis is a wine glass with a little ice if you want to ensure it stays very cold on a hot summer day.
Spice up your Bellini flavors:
• Your softer fruits are best for Bellinis. Peaches, Blackberries, Raspberries and Watermelon are probably best as these can easily be pureed and broken up to a water-like consistency.
• Get exotic with flavors like Papaya and or Mango. Best thought is to mix fresh fruit with a little papaya or mango juice, so that the liquid can get water-like.
GREAT PARTY IDEA: Make a couple of these fresh fruit purees and let guests customize their ideas. A watermelon Bellini for your best friend and a papaya Bellini for you. Everyone will get a flavor they love and you will responsible for the summer party of the year!