This elegant non-alcoholic version of the classic Italian Bellini captures all the sophistication of the original with sweet peach purée and sparkling grape juice. Perfect for brunch parties, baby showers, or anytime you want a refined drink without the alcohol.
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 4 large ripe peaches, peeled and pitted
- 15ml fresh lemon juice
- 30ml simple syrup (or honey to taste)
- 720ml sparkling white grape juice, chilled
- 240ml sparkling water (optional, for lighter version)
- as needed ice cubes (optional)
- 1 peach fresh peach slices for garnish
- 8 small fresh mint leaves for garnish
- optional edible flowers for elegant garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Bring a pot of water to boil. Score an X on the bottom of each 4 large ripe peaches. Blanch peaches for 30-60 seconds, then transfer to ice water. The skins should slip off easily.
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Remove pits and roughly chop the peeled peaches. In a blender, combine peaches, 15ml fresh lemon juice, and 30ml simple syrup (or honey to taste). Blend until completely smooth.
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Strain the peach purée through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining lumps, pressing solids to extract maximum liquid. This creates a silky smooth base.
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Taste the peach purée and adjust sweetness with additional 30ml simple syrup (or honey to taste) if needed. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
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When ready to serve, chill 4 champagne flutes or wine glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes.
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Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of peach purée into each chilled glass.
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Slowly pour 720ml sparkling white grape juice into each glass, filling about 3/4 full. For a lighter version, top with 240ml sparkling water (optional.
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Gently stir once to create a beautiful gradient effect, being careful not to lose too much fizz.
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Garnish with 1 peach fresh peach slices for garnish, 8 small fresh mint leaves for garnish, and optional edible flowers for elegant garnish (optional) if using. Serve immediately.
Tips
Peach Perfection: Use fully ripe, fragrant peaches for the sweetest flavor. If peaches aren't perfectly ripe, let them sit at room temperature for 1-2 days.
Blanching Technique: The quick blanch makes peeling effortless and ensures the smoothest purée. Skip this step if using very ripe peaches with loose skins.
Make-Ahead Base: Peach purée can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated. It may separate slightly - just stir before using.
Serving Temperature: Keep all ingredients well-chilled for the most refreshing drink. Warm ingredients will cause the sparkling elements to lose their fizz quickly.
Texture Preferences: For a more rustic texture, skip the straining step. For an even smoother drink, strain twice through progressively finer sieves.
Seasonal Adaptations: When fresh peaches aren't available, use high-quality frozen peaches (thawed) or even peach nectar mixed with lemon juice.
Presentation Tips: Rim glasses with sugar for extra sweetness, or freeze small peach pieces in ice cubes for an elegant touch that won't dilute the flavor.