The Hugo Spritz is a light and elegant sparkling cocktail that has become a favorite across Europe and beyond. Originally popularized in Northern Italy, it was created as a refreshing alternative to the classic spritz cocktails that often rely on bitter liqueurs. Instead, this drink uses delicate elderflower liqueur to create a floral, slightly sweet, and incredibly refreshing flavor profile.
The cocktail combines sparkling wine, elderflower liqueur, fresh mint, and citrus for a drink that feels both sophisticated and easygoing. The bubbles from the sparkling wine keep it bright and lively, while the elderflower liqueur adds subtle notes of pear, peach, and citrus blossom. A splash of soda water finishes it off with extra freshness.
Because it’s so light and balanced, the Hugo Spritz is perfect for brunch, outdoor gatherings, summer evenings, or special celebrations. It looks beautiful in a large wine glass filled with ice, lime, and fresh mint, making it just as appealing visually as it is delicious.
Why I Keep Making This Drink
I keep making the Hugo Spritz because it’s refreshing without being overly sweet or heavy. The elderflower liqueur gives it a unique floral flavor that feels elegant but still easy to enjoy. It’s the kind of drink that works equally well for relaxed afternoons and more formal gatherings.
Another reason I love this cocktail is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients and almost no effort, you can create something that feels special and sophisticated. The fresh mint and lime add a bright aroma that makes each sip feel crisp and refreshing.
Tips I Learned the Hard Way
- Use plenty of ice. A well-chilled drink tastes brighter and more refreshing.
- Muddle gently. Crushing mint too hard can make it bitter.
- Use good sparkling wine. The flavor of the wine really matters.
- Add soda water last. This keeps the drink bubbly.
- Stir lightly. Too much stirring will flatten the bubbles.
- Use fresh herbs and citrus. They add aroma and balance.
- Serve immediately. Sparkling cocktails are best fresh.
Variations You Can Mess Around With
- Use basil instead of mint. Adds a slightly peppery herbal flavor.
- Try cava instead of prosecco. A Spanish sparkling wine works well.
- Make it less strong. Add more soda water.
- Add cucumber slices. Creates a refreshing garden-style twist.
- Use lemon instead of lime. Slightly brighter citrus flavor.
- Make a pitcher version. Perfect for parties.
- Add berries. Strawberries or raspberries look beautiful in the glass.
How To Make Hugo Spritz Cocktail?
Ingredients
- 2 lime wheels
- 1 sprig fresh mint
- 1½ ounces elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain)
- 5 ounces Prosecco
- Splash of soda water
- Ice
Equipment
- Large wine glass
- Cocktail muddler or spoon
- Bar spoon (for stirring)
Instructions
Step 1:
Fill a large wine glass halfway with ice.
Step 2:
Add one lime wheel and a few mint leaves to the glass. Gently muddle them to release their aroma.
Step 3:
Pour the elderflower liqueur into the glass.
Step 4:
Add the Prosecco and then top with a splash of soda water.
Step 5:
Give the drink a quick, gentle stir to combine.
Step 6:
Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and another lime wheel. Serve immediately.
Hugo Spritz Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a large wine glass halfway with ice.
- Add one lime wheel and a few mint leaves to the glass. Gently muddle them to release their aroma.
- Pour the elderflower liqueur into the glass.
- Add the Prosecco and then top with a splash of soda water.
- Give the drink a quick, gentle stir to combine.
- Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and another lime wheel. Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 169 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient size, quality, brand, location, and the proportions used. All nutritional information is calculated on a per-serving basis.
If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.
How I Like to Serve This
- In a large wine glass. Classic spritz presentation.
- With lots of ice. Keeps it crisp and refreshing.
- With fresh mint garnish. Adds aroma.
- With extra lime slices. Boosts citrus flavor.
- At brunch or outdoor gatherings. Perfect warm-weather cocktail.
- Alongside light appetizers. Pairs well with snacks and salads.
Storage, Leftovers, and Next-Day Thoughts
- Best served immediately. Sparkling drinks lose bubbles quickly.
- Prep ingredients ahead. Slice citrus and chill the wine earlier.
- Batch for parties. Mix everything except the sparkling wine and soda in advance.
- Add bubbles last. Pour Prosecco just before serving.
FAQs (Real Questions People Actually Ask)
What does a Hugo Spritz taste like?
It’s light, floral, slightly sweet, and very refreshing with citrus and herbal notes.
Can I use another sparkling wine?
Yes, cava or any dry sparkling wine works well.
Is elderflower liqueur very sweet?
It’s gently sweet with floral and fruity notes.
Can I make it non-alcoholic?
Yes, use elderflower syrup and sparkling water instead.
Can I make a pitcher for parties?
Yes, mix the base ingredients ahead of time and add sparkling wine right before serving.
