The legendary Bellini cocktail, an enduring symbol of Italian elegance since its 1948 creation at Venice’s Harry’s Bar, has officially arrived in Jamaica through a strategic partnership between Cipriani Drinks and Harbour Wines & Spirits. Founded by Giuseppe Cipriani and inspired by the soft pink hues of Renaissance artist Giovanni Bellini’s paintings, the cocktail has transcended its Venetian origins to become a globally recognized aperitif.
The official launch event, held on December 6th at the luxurious Opulenz Villa in St. Ann, marked the Caribbean introduction of both the ready-to-drink bottled Bellini and Cipriani’s proprietary Prosecco. Francesco Portello, National Sales Director for the Americas at Cipriani Drinks, traveled from Miami to personally oversee the introduction, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to global expansion while maintaining its century-old legacy of impeccable service and Italian charm.
Dr. Debbian Spence-Minott, Commercial Manager at Harbour Wines & Spirits, detailed how the partnership emerged from Wine Paris, an international trade show where the brand’s unique combination of heritage and modern presentation captured their attention. ‘One sip of the Bellini and the Prosecco and we knew we had a hit on our hands,’ Spence-Minott enthused, noting the products’ alignment with evolving Jamaican consumer preferences and their exposure to international flavor profiles through travel.
The event itself embodied the Cipriani experience, with brand ambassadors in blue and white tulle creations reminiscent of the brand’s iconic Majolica print, smooth Prosecco pours, and culinary creations from award-winning Chef Trevanne Donegal that incorporated the Bellini into dessert offerings. Against a backdrop of sunset and blue-illuminated pool decks, guests toasted with miniature 200ml bottles of the ready-to-serve cocktail, celebrating what both companies anticipate will be a successful market penetration.
The convenience of the bottled format maintains the cocktail’s essential character: a precise blend of high-quality Prosecco and Mediterranean white peach purée with only 5.5% alcohol content, offering subtle sweetness without overwhelming potency. This presentation strategy acknowledges modern consumer preferences for both quality and convenience while preserving the drink’s artisanal origins.