white peach + vodka {cocktail}

Most people, when faced with a gorgeous basket of summer peaches will immediately start thinking of pies, cobblers or crumbles.

Me? My mind tends to go another route. You know. The wine, gin, prosecco path. And since my friend Gillian is visiting us in Todi this week, cocktail mode is in full gear. When she saw the peaches sitting on the kitchen table, all innocent and beautiful, she had just one thought: vodka.

As it turns out she also had a great recipe in mind, thanks to her friend Rick. The other night he came up with the perfect answer to ripe peaches. Rather than emphasize their sweet fruitiness with the addition of prosecco, as is the norm with a Bellini, he opted for contrast. The peaches get pureed along with lemon juice and a hefty dose of hot pepper. Vodka, ice and a splash of soda turns it into a……

Ok, Gillian and I tried to think up some sort of cute name for this. A Vellini (Vodka Bellini) was the closest we got. But a quick google came up with icky vanilla versions of peach and prosecco drinks.

So, if you can come up with a name, I’m open to anything. But for now, we’re calling this the Peach + Vodka Cocktail. I hope that’s ok with you Rick. Because it sure works for us.












White Peach + Vodka Cocktail
1 drink

2 ripe peaches
1 fresh hot pepper
2 oz vodka
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Soda water

I like using white peaches for this drink, since they are a bit more floral and less sweet than yellow ones. But feel free to experiment. 

Peel and pit the peach, and blend it at high speed with the lemon juice and hot pepper. (this will make enough puree for about 4 drinks)

To make the drink, add 4 tablespoons peach puree into a glass. Add vodka, stir well. Add ice, and top with soda water. Stir gently.

Since it’s summer, it’s fun to garnish with something pretty, like a pink geranium flower.