Lemon Bellini Recipe
This elegant Lemon Bellini recipe creates a refreshing and vibrant cocktail perfect for brunch or celebrations. It combines softened lemon sorbet, a touch of citrus vodka, and effervescent sparkling wine, finished with fresh fruit garnishes. The key is gentle preparation to preserve the delicate bubbles and ensure a balanced, sophisticated drink with bright citrus notes.
Equipment
- 1 Champagne Flute Chilled for optimal serving temperature
- 1 Measuring Jigger For precise liquor measurements
- 1 Bar Spoon For gentle mixing without deflating bubbles
- 1 Small Paring Knife For preparing garnishes like lemon wheels
Ingredients
Main
- 1 spoonful softened lemon sorbet
- 1/2 ounce citrus vodka
- 4 ounces sparkling wine or rosé Champagne
- garnish: lemon wheel sliced kumquats, or 3 raspberries, additional sorbet
Instructions
- Ensure all liquid ingredients are well-chilled. Soften the lemon sorbet slightly at room temperature if too firm.
- Place one spoonful of softened lemon sorbet into a chilled Champagne flute.
- Measure and carefully add 1/2 ounce of citrus vodka into the flute.
- Slowly pour 4 ounces of sparkling wine or rosé Champagne into the glass, tilting the flute and pouring down the side to preserve effervescence.
- Using a bar spoon, gently stir the mixture just enough to integrate the sorbet without deflating the bubbles.
- Garnish the Bellini with a lemon wheel, sliced kumquats, or 3 raspberries. An additional small dollop of sorbet can also be added.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
For a superior Bellini, ensure all liquid ingredients are thoroughly chilled. The lemon sorbet should be softened but not melted to achieve the desired consistency and allow for easy incorporation. When adding the sparkling wine, pour it slowly down the side of the glass to preserve its effervescence; this is crucial for the drink's signature sparkle. Stir gently with a bar spoon only to combine the sorbet with the liquids, avoiding vigorous agitation that would flatten the bubbles. Consider using a high-quality dry sparkling wine or Brut Champagne to balance the sweetness of the sorbet. Fresh garnishes not only enhance presentation but can also add aromatic complexity to the beverage. A well-executed Bellini relies on precise measurements and careful handling to maintain its delicate balance and refreshing character.