Venice needs no introduction – Cassanova, gondolas, masquerade balls – the floating city is world famous for its history, its opulent shopping and its waterways. Warm temperatures and designer labels make this a pretty classy joint. Think of the hundreds of canals of Venice as a sign that you should be partaking in hundreds of drinks whilst you’re there.
If your liver is not up for that sort of action, then the one drink you have to have at your side and in your gullet when in Venice is Bellini. Yes, Bellini. Most tourists flock to Venice with one goal in mind: to be serenaded upon the waterways in a luxurious gondola, whilst soaking in the culture and sophistication that comes standard with such trips. And this is where Bellini comes in. It is a prerequisite for a legitimate gondola ride. It may, in fact, be illegal to drink otherwise when cruising a canal.
If you’re not familiar with the drink, it’s basically a peach flavoured sparkling wine. A little girly and a lot fruity, you’ll find it in most Venician cafes. The most masculine of men and the sweetest of dames will appreciate the way the peachy goodness compliments a tipsy ride along one of the many watery veins of the city. I can only imagine that Bellini tastes to a human as an eight-year-old girl does to a vampire. Sweet, delicate, and a little like a felony.
For the classier readers, it’s suggested that you bring along some fancy glassware to sip from, creating the perfect Venician moment. For the rest of us, grab a few bottles and share a swig amongst friends. It’s as classy as you make it. Don’t be afraid to get a bit confident and let your drink sweep you into serenading your Gondolier for a change. He may not appreciate it, but you’re not too likely to care at that point. If your bottle is not empty by the time your gondola docks, you have failed and should probably try again.
Tip for the romantics: there is no better moment to confess your undying love to the object of your affection. It’s a romantic setting, it’s a great drink and let’s face it, they can’t get away unless they’re willing to jump into the canal.
After surviving your afternoon booze cruise, don’t hesitate to hit up a quaint Venician restaurant and start adding to the list of Italian house wines you’re likely to try on your trip.
Venice conquered.
