Hugo Spritz Cocktail: Prepare to be transported to the sun-drenched terraces of Northern Italy with this exquisitely refreshing and effortlessly elegant drink! Imagine yourself, Aperol Spritz in hand, but with a sophisticated twist. The Hugo Spritz is about to become your new favorite aperitivo.

While the Aperol Spritz boasts a longer history, the Hugo Spritz is a relatively recent creation, born in 2005 in the South Tyrol region of Italy. Roland Gruber, a bartender seeking a lighter, more floral alternative to the classic Aperol, concocted this delightful elixir. Its popularity quickly spread throughout Italy and beyond, becoming a symbol of chic summer evenings.

What makes the Hugo Spritz Cocktail so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, floral, and bubbly. The elderflower liqueur lends a delicate sweetness and aromatic complexity, while the Prosecco adds a celebratory fizz. Fresh mint and lime provide a refreshing zest that awakens the palate. Its incredibly easy to make, requiring no special equipment or advanced mixology skills, making it the ideal drink for both casual gatherings and elegant soirees. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll understand why everyone is raving about the Hugo Spritz Cocktail. Get ready to elevate your cocktail game!

Ingredients:

Prosecco: 3 ounces (90ml), chilled. I prefer a dry or extra dry Prosecco for this, as it balances the sweetness of the elderflower liqueur.
Elderflower Liqueur: 2 ounces (60ml), such as St-Germain. This is the star of the show, providing that delicate floral aroma and flavor.
Soda Water: 1 ounce (30ml), chilled. Use club soda or sparkling water for a bit of fizz.
Fresh Mint Sprig: For garnish. A generous sprig, slapped gently to release its aroma.
Lime or Lemon Wedge: For garnish. I like lime for its slightly more tart flavor, but lemon works beautifully too.
Ice Cubes: Plenty! You want to keep your drink nice and cold.

Preparing Your Hugo Spritz:

Chill Your Glass: This is optional, but I highly recommend it. Pop your wine glass (a large wine glass is ideal) in the freezer for a few minutes before you start. A chilled glass helps keep your Hugo Spritz colder for longer.
Add Ice: Fill your chilled wine glass with ice cubes. Don’t be shy you want a good amount of ice to keep the drink refreshingly cold.
Pour in the Prosecco: Gently pour 3 ounces (90ml) of chilled Prosecco over the ice. Try to pour slowly to preserve the bubbles.
Add the Elderflower Liqueur: Next, add 2 ounces (60ml) of elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain) to the glass. The elderflower liqueur is what gives the Hugo Spritz its signature floral sweetness.
Top with Soda Water: Add 1 ounce (30ml) of chilled soda water to the glass. This adds a bit of extra fizz and dilutes the drink slightly, making it perfectly refreshing.
Garnish with Mint: Gently slap a fresh mint sprig between your hands to release its aroma. Then, place the mint sprig in the glass. This adds a lovely visual element and a refreshing scent.
Garnish with Lime or Lemon: Add a lime or lemon wedge to the rim of the glass. You can also squeeze a little of the juice into the drink for an extra burst of citrus.
Stir Gently: Use a long spoon or cocktail stirrer to gently stir the drink. Be careful not to over-stir, as you don’t want to lose all the bubbles. Just a gentle stir to combine the ingredients is all you need.
Serve Immediately: Your Hugo Spritz is best enjoyed immediately, while it’s still cold and bubbly. Cheers!

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few tips and variations to help you customize your Hugo Spritz to your liking:

Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, you can reduce the amount of elderflower liqueur. Start with 1.5 ounces (45ml) and adjust to taste. You can also use a drier Prosecco.
Experiment with Garnishes: While mint and lime/lemon are the classic garnishes, you can experiment with other options. Cucumber ribbons, edible flowers, or even a few berries can add a unique touch.
Make it a Mocktail: To make a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the Prosecco with sparkling white grape juice or non-alcoholic sparkling wine. You can also find non-alcoholic elderflower syrup to replace the liqueur.
Use Different Herbs: While mint is the most common herb, you can also try using basil or rosemary for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to use them sparingly, as their flavors can be quite strong.
Add a Splash of Juice: A splash of grapefruit juice or cranberry juice can add a bit of tartness and complexity to your Hugo Spritz.
Make a Pitcher: If you’re making Hugo Spritzes for a crowd, you can easily make a pitcher. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, and combine everything in a pitcher. Add the ice just before serving to prevent the drink from becoming diluted.
Infuse Your Prosecco: For an extra layer of flavor, try infusing your Prosecco with herbs or fruit. Add a few sprigs of rosemary or slices of strawberries to a bottle of Prosecco and let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before using.
Consider the Glassware: While a large wine glass is traditional, you can also use a highball glass or even a mason jar for a more rustic look. The most important thing is to choose a glass that you enjoy drinking from.

Choosing the Right Ingredients:

The quality of your ingredients will have a big impact on the taste of your Hugo Spritz. Here’s what to look for:

Prosecco: As mentioned earlier, I recommend using a dry or extra dry Prosecco. This will help balance the sweetness of the elderflower liqueur. Look for a Prosecco that is labeled “Brut” or “Extra Brut.”
Elderflower Liqueur: St-Germain is the most popular brand of elderflower liqueur, and for good reason. It has a delicate floral aroma and a smooth, slightly sweet flavor. However, there are other brands available, so feel free to experiment and find one that you like.
Soda Water: Use a good quality soda water or sparkling water. Avoid using tonic water, as it has a distinct flavor that will clash with the other ingredients.
Fresh Mint: Use fresh, vibrant mint sprigs. Avoid mint that is wilted or discolored. Gently slap the mint sprig between your hands to release its aroma before adding it to the drink.
Lime or Lemon: Use fresh, ripe limes or lemons. Avoid using bottled juice, as it doesn’t have the same fresh flavor.

Why I Love the Hugo Spritz:

The Hugo Spritz is one of my favorite cocktails for so many reasons. It’s light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for sipping on a warm summer day, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, and mint is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s so versatile you can easily customize it to your liking by adjusting the sweetness, adding different garnishes, or even using different herbs. Whether you’re hosting a party or just relaxing at home, the Hugo Spritz is the perfect drink to enjoy.

Troubleshooting Your Hugo Spritz:

Sometimes, even with the best intentions, things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are a few common issues you might encounter when making a Hugo Spritz, and how to fix them:

Too Sweet: If your Hugo Spritz is too sweet, try adding a squeeze of lime or lemon juice to balance the sweetness. You can also reduce the amount of elderflower liqueur you use.
Not Bubbly Enough: Make sure your Prosecco and soda water are well-chilled. Also, avoid over-stirring the drink, as this will cause it to lose its bubbles.
Mint is Bitter: Be careful not to muddle the mint too much, as this can release bitter compounds. Simply slap the mint sprig gently between your hands to release its aroma.
Weak Flavor: If your Hugo Spritz tastes weak, try using a higher quality Prosecco and elderflower liqueur. You can also add a splash of grapefruit juice or cranberry juice to boost the flavor.
Ice Melts Too Quickly: Use plenty of ice, and make sure your glass is well-chilled. You can also use larger ice cubes, as they melt more slowly.

Serving Suggestions:

The Hugo Spritz is a versatile cocktail that pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are a few serving suggestions:

Appetizers: The Hugo Spritz is a great aperitif to serve with appetizers such as bruschetta, olives, and cheese.
Salads: Its light and refreshing flavor makes it a perfect accompaniment to salads, especially those with vinaigrette dressings.
Seafood: The Hugo Spritz pairs well with seafood dishes such as grilled shrimp, ceviche, and oysters.
Light Meals: It’s also a great choice for light meals such as sandwiches, wraps, and quiche.
Desserts: The Hugo Spritz can even be enjoyed with desserts such as fruit tarts

Conclusion:

This Hugo Spritz Cocktail isn’t just another drink; it’s an experience, a little slice of Italian summer you can recreate in your own home. The delicate floral notes of elderflower, the refreshing fizz of Prosecco, and the cool mint create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. I truly believe this is a must-try cocktail, not just for its simplicity, but for its ability to transport you to a sun-drenched terrace overlooking the rolling hills of Italy.

Why is it a must-try? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. It’s the perfect drink for a casual get-together with friends, a relaxing evening on the patio, or even a sophisticated brunch. The Hugo Spritz is versatile, adaptable, and undeniably delicious. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone wanting more.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with different variations to find your perfect Hugo Spritz.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Fruity Twist: Add a few slices of fresh strawberries or raspberries for an extra burst of flavor and color. Muddled berries before adding the Prosecco can intensify the fruitiness.
* Herbal Infusion: Try adding a sprig of rosemary or thyme along with the mint for a more complex and aromatic profile. Gently bruise the herbs to release their essential oils.
* Citrus Zest: A sliver of lemon or lime zest can add a bright and zesty note to the cocktail. Be careful not to add too much pith, as it can make the drink bitter.
* Non-Alcoholic Option: For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the Prosecco with sparkling water or club soda and add a splash of white grape juice for sweetness. You can also find non-alcoholic sparkling wine alternatives that mimic the taste of Prosecco quite well.
* Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a little more elderflower liqueur. If you prefer a drier drink, reduce the amount of liqueur or add a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
* Presentation Matters: Garnish your Hugo Spritz with a generous sprig of fresh mint, a slice of lime, and a few edible flowers for an elegant touch. Use a large wine glass or a balloon glass to showcase the beautiful colors and aromas of the cocktail.

I’m confident that once you try this recipe, the Hugo Spritz Cocktail will become a staple in your repertoire. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and refreshing, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, grab your favorite glass, and get ready to experience the magic of the Hugo Spritz. I can’t wait to hear what you think!

I encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience with me. Did you try any of the variations? What did you think of the flavor? Did you serve it at a party? Let me know in the comments below! I’m always eager to hear your feedback and see your creations. Cheers to happy sipping!
Hugo Spritz Cocktail: The Refreshing Summer Drink You Need

A refreshing Italian cocktail with Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, soda, mint, and lime. Perfect for warm weather.

Prep Time2 minutes

Cook Time0 minutes

Total Time2 minutes

Category: Appetizer

Yield: 1 serving

Save This Recipe

Ingredients
- 3 ounces (90ml) Prosecco, chilled (dry or extra dry recommended)
- 2 ounces (60ml) Elderflower Liqueur (such as St-Germain)
- 1 ounce (30ml) Soda Water, chilled
- Fresh Mint Sprig, for garnish
- Lime or Lemon Wedge, for garnish
- Ice Cubes
Instructions
1. Chill Your Glass (Optional): Place a large wine glass in the freezer for a few minutes to chill.
2. Add Ice: Fill the chilled wine glass with ice cubes.
3. Pour Prosecco: Gently pour the chilled Prosecco over the ice.
4. Add Elderflower Liqueur: Add the elderflower liqueur to the glass.
5. Top with Soda Water: Add the chilled soda water.
6. Garnish with Mint: Gently slap a fresh mint sprig between your hands to release its aroma, then place it in the glass.
7. Garnish with Lime/Lemon: Add a lime or lemon wedge to the rim of the glass.
8. Stir Gently: Gently stir the drink to combine the ingredients, being careful not to over-stir.
9. Serve Immediately: Enjoy immediately while cold and bubbly.
Notes
- Adjust Sweetness: Reduce elderflower liqueur for a less sweet drink.
- Garnish Variations: Experiment with cucumber ribbons, edible flowers, or berries.
- Mocktail: Replace Prosecco with sparkling white grape juice or non-alcoholic sparkling wine, and use non-alcoholic elderflower syrup.
- Herb Variations: Try basil or rosemary instead of mint (use sparingly).
- Juice Splash: Add a splash of grapefruit or cranberry juice.
- Pitcher: Multiply ingredients for a pitcher, adding ice just before serving.
- Infuse Prosecco: Infuse Prosecco with herbs or fruit for extra flavor.
- Glassware: Use a wine glass, highball glass, or mason jar.

Hugo Spritz Cocktail: The Refreshing Summer Drink You Need