When I think of Bellinis, I am immediately transported back to the enchanting city of Venice. The vibrant pink hue of this classic cocktail is not only visually stunning, but it also holds a special significance in the history of Harry's Bar.
Giuseppe Cipriani, the founder of Harry's Bar, was a man with a keen eye for beauty and a passion for art. It is said that he was inspired to create the Bellini cocktail after admiring a painting by the renowned Venetian artist, Giovanni Bellini. In this painting, Cipriani was captivated by the soft, delicate pink color of a saint's toga.
With this inspiration in mind, Cipriani set out to create a cocktail that would capture the essence of that beautiful pink hue. He experimented with various ingredients until he found the perfect combination that not only replicated the color but also complemented its visual appeal with a delightful taste.
The key ingredient in a Bellini is peach puree or peach nectar, which gives the cocktail its distinctive pink color. The ripe, juicy peaches are carefully selected and pureed to extract their natural sweetness and vibrant color. This puree is then combined with sparkling wine, usually Prosecco, to create a refreshing and effervescent drink.
The choice of Prosecco as the base for a Bellini is no coincidence. Prosecco is a sparkling wine that originates from the Veneto region of Italy, where Venice is located. Its light and crisp nature perfectly complements the sweetness and fruitiness of the peach puree, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors.
To truly appreciate the pink hue of a Bellini, it is best enjoyed in the idyllic setting of Harry's Bar itself. The bar is situated in a charming stone building along a canal near Piazza San Marco, surrounded by the rich history and artistic heritage of Venice. As you sip on your Bellini, you can immerse yourself in the ambiance of this iconic establishment and imagine the artistic inspiration that led to its creation.
Bellinis are pink because of the peach puree or peach nectar that is used as the main ingredient. This delicate pink color was inspired by a painting by Giovanni Bellini, and it holds a special significance in the history of Harry's Bar. The combination of peach puree and Prosecco creates a visually stunning and delicious cocktail that is synonymous with the charm and elegance of Venice.