Hugo Spritz Recipe: Make the Perfect Drink at Home

The Hugo Spritz is the perfect summer drink—light, floral, and irresistibly refreshing. Picture yourself lounging on a sunny afternoon, a chilled glass in hand, filled with sparkling prosecco, fragrant elderflower syrup, fresh mint, and a squeeze of zesty lime. Every sip is a balance of crisp, floral, and citrusy notes, making it an effortless yet elegant choice for warm-weather sipping.

This delightful cocktail was born in 2005 in South Tyrol, a picturesque region in Northern Italy. Originally created as a milder alternative to the bold and slightly bitter Aperol Spritz, the Hugo Spritz quickly became a favorite across Europe and beyond. Its light and fragrant profile makes it a go-to for those who enjoy a more delicate, refreshing cocktail.

One of the best things about the Hugo Spritz is how simple it is to make. With just a few ingredients—prosecco, elderflower syrup, soda water, mint, and lime—you can create a beautifully balanced drink in minutes. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, unwinding after a long day, or just looking for an easy yet impressive cocktail, the Hugo Spritz is always a great choice.

Want to make it your own? You can tweak the flavors by adding extra lime for more zest, using sparkling wine instead of prosecco, or experimenting with different herbs like basil or rosemary. The possibilities are endless!

In this guide, you’ll learn how to craft the perfect Hugo Spritz, explore its history, and discover expert tips to elevate your cocktail game. Get ready to enjoy a drink that’s as refreshing as it is sophisticated—cheers!

What is a Hugo Spritz?

The Hugo Spritz is a crisp, bubbly drink that blends prosecco, elderflower liqueur, soda water, fresh mint, and lime. Light and refreshing, it’s the perfect cocktail for warm days. Served over ice in a large wine glass, it looks just as good as it tastes.

This cocktail was created in 2005 by Roland Gruber, a bartender from South Tyrol, Italy. He wanted a gentler option compared to the bitter Aperol Spritz. The result was a smooth, floral drink that quickly became a favorite across Europe. The elderflower adds a touch of sweetness, the lime brings a bright citrus kick, and the mint gives it a fresh, herbal touch.

One of the best things about the Hugo Spritz is how easy it is to make. With just a few ingredients, you can mix up a stylish, flavorful drink in minutes. Plus, you can tweak it to match your taste—add more lime for extra zest, use less elderflower for a drier sip, or swap mint for basil or rosemary for a fun twist.

Perfect for summer parties, brunches, or just a relaxing evening, the Hugo Spritz is an easy crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re sipping by the pool, on a patio, or at a picnic, this cocktail is a simple way to add a little sparkle to your day.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to mix the perfect Hugo Spritz, find out where it came from, and get expert tips to make it your own. Get ready to enjoy a drink that’s as refreshing as it is stylish—cheers!

Why You’ll Love the Hugo Spritz Recipe

Why should you learn the Hugo Spritz recipe? Here are a few reasons this cocktail deserves a spot on your summer menu:

1. Light and Low-Alcohol: The Hugo Spritz is perfect for those who prefer a refreshing, easy-to-drink cocktail that doesn’t overwhelm with alcohol content.
2. Customizable: This drink is incredibly versatile. Add berries, edible flowers, or cucumber slices to personalize your recipe.
3. Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and a simple preparation process, this cocktail is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a special celebration.

The Hugo Spritz recipe offers the perfect combination of sophistication and ease, making it a go-to choice for anyone looking to impress their guests or enjoy a relaxing evening.

The Key Ingredients of a Hugo Spritz

Prosecco

Prosecco is the foundation of the Hugo Spritz recipe, providing its signature bubbles and a touch of dryness. A Brut prosecco is the best choice as it balances the sweetness of the elderflower liqueur without overpowering the drink.

Pro Tip: For more details on selecting the best prosecco for cocktails, explore prosecco options for cocktails.

Elderflower Liqueur

Elderflower liqueur is the ingredient that adds the cocktail’s signature floral flavor. St-Germain is a popular choice due to its delicate balance of sweetness and aroma. For a non-alcoholic version, elderflower cordial works beautifully as a substitute.

Did You Know? Elderflowers are traditionally foraged in the Dolomite mountain region, tying this ingredient to the drink’s Italian roots. Learn more about St-Germain elderflower liqueur.

Mint Leaves

Fresh mint is a crucial ingredient, bringing an invigorating herbal note that pairs perfectly with the elderflower and lime. Choose bright, unblemished leaves for the best results.

Club Soda

Club soda adds the effervescence that makes this cocktail so refreshing. Its neutral flavor allows the other ingredients to shine. Avoid sweetened sodas, as they can disrupt the drink’s delicate balance.

Lime

Lime juice and slices bring a tangy brightness that enhances the drink’s citrusy profile. Use fresh lime for both flavor and garnish to elevate your cocktail.

Optional Additions

Customize your Hugo Spritz recipe with these fun additions:

• Fresh berries for a fruity twist.
• Edible flowers like pansies or violets for visual appeal.
• Cucumber slices for an extra refreshing touch.

How to Make Hugo Spritz: Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

• 3 oz prosecco
• 2 oz elderflower liqueur (e.g., St-Germain)
• 1 oz club soda
• 4–5 fresh mint leaves
• 1 lime (sliced and juiced)
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Glass: Chill a large wine glass and fill it with ice cubes. This keeps the drink cold and fresh.
2. Add Mint: Add 4–5 mint leaves to the glass and gently muddle them against the ice to release their aroma without crushing them completely.
3. Pour the Prosecco: Slowly pour 3 ounces of prosecco into the glass. Tilt the glass slightly to preserve the bubbles.
4. Add Elderflower Liqueur: Pour 2 ounces of elderflower liqueur or cordial into the glass, giving the drink its signature floral sweetness.
5. Top with Club Soda: Add 1 ounce of club soda for a fizzy finish. Pour gently to maintain carbonation.
6. Garnish: Squeeze a small amount of lime juice into the drink and garnish with a lime slice and a sprig of mint.

The Hugo Spritz recipe is now ready to enjoy! Serve immediately for the best flavor and presentation.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

The Hugo Spritz recipe pairs beautifully with light, flavorful dishes. Here are some ideas:

• Appetizers: Complement the drink’s lightness with prosciutto-wrapped melon, bruschetta, or a cheese platter. Pair your Hugo Spritz with this savory Crab Brûlée.
• Desserts: Highlight the floral notes with desserts like lemon tarts, macarons, or a Dubai-inspired chocolate bar recipe.
• Occasions: Serve the drink at brunch, garden parties, or as part of an elegant aperitivo spread.

Variations to Try

Hugo Spritz with Berries

Add a handful of fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, to the glass. This fruity twist enhances the Hugo Spritz recipe with vibrant flavor and color.

Cucumber-Infused Hugo Spritz

Add thin slices of cucumber to your Hugo Spritz recipe for an ultra-refreshing variation. This works particularly well on hot days.

Ginger Hugo Spritz

Replace the club soda with ginger ale for a spicier take on the classic Hugo Spritz recipe.

Non-Alcoholic Hugo Spritz

Swap the prosecco with sparkling water and use elderflower cordial instead of liqueur for a delightful mocktail version of the Hugo Spritz recipe.

Pro Tips for the Best Hugo Spritz Recipe

1. Chill Everything: Ensure all ingredients are cold before assembling the drink for maximum refreshment.
2. Use High-Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of the Hugo Spritz recipe means every ingredient matters.
3. Avoid Over-Muddling Mint: Gently muddle to release flavor without bitterness.
4. Serve Immediately: The drink’s effervescence is best enjoyed fresh.

Cultural Context: The Story Behind Hugo Spritz Recipe

This cocktail is deeply rooted in Italian aperitivo culture, where light drinks and snacks are enjoyed to stimulate the appetite before dinner. Invented in South Tyrol, its blend of local elderflower and prosecco crafted a uniquely regional flavor that quickly gained international fame. Today, it’s a staple on cocktail menus worldwide.

Recipes card

Hugo Spritz Recipe

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• Author: jake
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 cocktail
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

A refreshing and elegant cocktail that combines prosecco, elderflower, mint, and lime for a perfect summer drink. Simple to make and incredibly stylish, the Hugo Spritz is great for brunch, garden parties, or aperitivo hour.

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Ingredients

• 3 oz prosecco (dry Brut prosecco works best)
• 2 oz elderflower liqueur (St-Germain recommended)
• 1 oz club soda (adds a refreshing fizz)
• 4–5 fresh mint leaves (for herbal freshness)
• 1 lime, sliced (for garnish and citrus flavor)
• Ice cubes (to keep it chilled)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Glass

1. Chill a large wine glass and fill it with ice cubes.

Step 2: Add Mint & Lime

1. Add 4-5 fresh mint leaves to the glass.
2. Gently press (muddle) the mint against the ice to release its oils.
3. Squeeze a small amount of fresh lime juice into the glass.

Step 3: Pour the Ingredients

1. Slowly pour 3 oz of prosecco into the glass.
2. Add 2 oz of elderflower liqueur for a floral sweetness.
3. Top with 1 oz of club soda for a bubbly finish.

Step 4: Stir & Garnish

1. Gently stir to mix the flavors.
2. Garnish with a lime slice and a sprig of mint.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• Best Prosecco: A dry (Brut) prosecco balances the drink’s sweetness.
• Elderflower Substitute: Use elderflower cordial for a non-alcoholic version.
• Avoid Over-Muddling: Press the mint gently to release flavor without making it bitter.
• Chill Everything: Use cold prosecco and soda for maximum refreshment.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Category: dessert
• Method: Stirred
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: Hugo Spritz

FAQs About Hugo Spritz Recipe

Conclusion

Mastering this cocktail is your gateway to enjoying a drink that’s as elegant as it is refreshing. With its light bubbles, floral sweetness, and zesty lime, it’s the ideal choice for summer occasions or simple indulgence. Whether you stick to the classic version or explore creative variations, this drink is sure to impress. Cheers to your new favorite cocktail!