It’s peach season, and the velvety fruits are showing up at local farmers markets. A ripe, juicy peach stands nicely on its own, but this sweet treat is also a terrific ingredient. What to make with summer’s bounty, you ask? Cocktails, of course!

For starters, there’s the Bellini – a summertime classic that hails from Harry’s Bar in Venice, Italy. A delightful combination of Champagne (or prosecco – it’s an Italian recipe after all!) and peach puree – this sipper is easy to make and not only tastes great, but also results in a lovely coral toned beverage.

An article in the August edition of "Bon Appetit" magazine covers a family’s annual holiday at a Tuscan villa. The photos of Bellinis in hand while the family takes in the Italian countryside are quite inspiring and might have led to several hours worth of Italian rental searches by yours truly.

The magazine's Bellini recipe can be found here, and just for the heck of it, here's an Italian villa rental site to peruse. It’s always good to dream …

Another option that pairs nicely with peaches is Brazil’s national cocktail, the Caipirinha. After a visit to the Columbia Room, head bartender Katie Nelson offered me a version made with muddled limes and locally grown peaches that was utterly delicious. To get Katie’s recipe and several more summertime refreshments, including a non-alcoholic peach shrub, click here.