A close-up view of a Hugo Spritz cocktail in a wine glass, garnished with fresh mint and lime slices, surrounded by prosecco and lime wedges on a rustic table.

Hugo Spritz Recipe: Make the Perfect Drink at Home

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Introduction

The Hugo Spritz recipe is your ticket to enjoying a refreshing and elegant cocktail that’s perfect for summer. Imagine sipping this delightful drink on a sunny day, with bubbles from prosecco rising in your glass, the floral notes of elderflower blending with fresh mint and zesty lime. This drink isn’t just a cocktail—it’s a celebration of relaxation and sophistication.

Originally created in South Tyrol, Northern Italy, in 2005, the Hugo Spritz quickly became a favorite across Europe and beyond. Its lighter, floral profile makes it a refreshing alternative to the bitter Aperol Spritz. Today, mastering the Hugo Spritz recipe is a must for anyone who loves simple yet impressive cocktails that are perfect for every occasion.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make this perfect recipe, explore its history, and discover tips for customizing it to suit your tastes. Let’s dive into this sparkling classic and elevate your cocktail game.

What is a Hugo Spritz?

The Hugo Spritz is a sparkling cocktail that combines prosecco, elderflower liqueur, soda water, fresh mint, and lime to create a light, floral, and refreshing drink. Invented by Roland Gruber, a bartender in South Tyrol, this drink was designed to offer a gentler alternative to the bold flavors of the Aperol Spritz.

What makes the Hugo Spritz recipe stand out is its simplicity and versatility. Its delicate balance of floral and citrus flavors, complemented by herbal mint notes, makes it a crowd-pleaser. The drink is typically served over ice in a large wine glass, garnished with mint and lime, making it as visually stunning as it is delicious.

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:

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.

FAQs About Hugo Spritz Recipe

  1. What’s the difference between Hugo Spritz and Aperol Spritz? The Hugo Spritz is floral and citrusy, while the Aperol Spritz is bold and bitter.
  2. Can I make a non-alcoholic Hugo Spritz recipe? Yes, substitute prosecco with sparkling water and elderflower liqueur with cordial.
  3. What’s the best prosecco for the Hugo Spritz recipe? A dry (Brut) prosecco balances the drink’s sweetness perfectly.
  4. Can I prepare the Hugo Spritz recipe in advance? Pre-mix prosecco and liqueur, but add soda and garnish just before serving.
  5. How do I store elderflower liqueur? Keep it sealed in a cool, dry place.

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!

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