There’s something undeniably cheerful about this cocktail. The Champagne and Peach (a.k.a. the classic Bellini) is light, bubbly, and bursting with the sweet flavor of ripe peaches. Whether you’re toasting brunch with friends or kicking off a summer evening, this drink always brings a little sparkle to the moment.
Champagne and Peach
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights—it’s simple, refreshing, and feels just fancy enough without being fussy.
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail (easily multiplied)
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) ripe peach purée (fresh or high-quality jarred)
– 4 oz (120 ml) chilled Champagne (or dry sparkling wine)
– Fresh peach slices, for garnish
Equipment
– Champagne flute or wine glass
– Small spoon or cocktail stirrer
– Blender (if making fresh purée)
Make-Ahead Note
You can make the peach purée ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze it in small portions and thaw as needed.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
– Peach Purée: Fresh white peaches are traditional for their subtle sweetness and floral aroma, but yellow peaches work great too. No fresh peaches? Use canned (in juice, not syrup) or thaw frozen ones. Just blend until smooth.
– Champagne: A dry (brut) Champagne or Prosecco balances the sweetness. Avoid sweet sparkling wines—they can make the drink overly sugary.
– No alcohol? Use sparkling water or a dry non-alcoholic sparkling wine. Add a splash of peach juice or nectar for flavor.
Method
- Chill your glass: Pop your flute in the freezer for 10 minutes to keep the drink extra refreshing.
- Add the peach purée: Pour 2 oz (60 ml) of peach purée into the bottom of the chilled flute.
- Top with champagne: Slowly pour in 4 oz (120 ml) of chilled Champagne. Go slow—it’ll foam up a bit and you want to keep those bubbles.
- Give it a gentle stir: Use a spoon or stirrer to lightly mix. Don’t shake—shaking kills the fizz.
- Garnish: Add a fresh peach slice to the rim or drop it in for a pretty touch.
Tips for Success
– Use ripe peaches: The sweeter and juicier, the better the flavor.
– Chill everything: Warm purée or Champagne will dull the sparkle.
– Don’t over-stir: A light swirl keeps things blended without flattening the bubbles.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: blend your purée with a tiny splash of lemon juice—it brightens the peach flavor and keeps the color vibrant.
How to Store Leftover Purée
– Refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
– Freeze in ice cube trays, then transfer cubes to a bag. Great for spontaneous cocktails!
Serving Suggestions
The Champagne and Peach cocktail shines at brunch, garden parties, or as a pre-dinner sipper. Here’s what pairs well:
Perfect Pairings
– Brunch dishes: Fluffy pancakes, eggs benedict, or a savory mushroom quiche.
– Cheese boards: Soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese, plus a few salty crackers.
– Seafood starters: Shrimp cocktail or crab salad work beautifully with the fruity fizz.
Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? Try these fun takes on the classic:
Raspberry Bellini
– Swap peach purée for raspberry purée.
– Garnish with a fresh raspberry.
Prosecco & Pear
– Use pear purée instead of peach.
– Add a cinnamon stick for a cozy twist.
Mimosa-Peach Twist
– Combine equal parts orange juice and champagne.
– Add a splash of peach liqueur.
Non-Alcoholic Option
– Mix 2 oz peach nectar with 4 oz sparkling water.
– Add a touch of grenadine for color and a hint of sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use canned peaches?
Absolutely. Just drain them first and blend until smooth. Look for peaches canned in juice, not syrup.
Is there a best time to serve this drink?
Summer is ideal, but honestly, it’s perfect for any moment that deserves a little celebration.
What’s the best Champagne to use?
Go for a dry (brut) Champagne or sparkling wine. It balances the sweetness of the peach purée perfectly.
Can I make this for a crowd?
Yes! Blend the purée ahead and chill it. Pour into a pitcher, then add Champagne just before serving so it stays bubbly.
How do I garnish it nicely?
A thin peach slice on the rim or a twist of lemon zest adds a pop of color and a little citrusy aroma.
Final Thoughts
The Champagne and Peach cocktail is a little taste of sunshine in a glass. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you stick with the classic or try a twist, you’ll have a drink that’s light, bright, and perfect for toasting life’s little wins. Cheers!
