The Hugo Spritz is a light, floral, and bubbly Italian cocktail that has gained worldwide popularity, especially during summer. Known for its refreshing blend of elderflower syrup, Prosecco, soda water, and fresh mint, this drink is an elegant alternative to the Aperol Spritz.

Perfect for warm evenings, garden parties, or casual get-togethers, the Hugo Spritz is easy to make, visually appealing, and incredibly delicious. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know, from its history and ingredients to step-by-step preparation, variations, serving tips, and common mistakes to avoid.

What is a Hugo Spritz?

The Origin and History of Hugo Spritz

Unlike many classic cocktails that date back centuries, the Hugo Spritz is a relatively new creation. It was first made in 2005 by Roland Gruber, a bartender from South Tyrol, Northern Italy.

Gruber wanted to create an alternative to the Aperol Spritz, which is known for its bitter, orange-flavored profile. Instead of using Aperol, he decided to use elderflower syrup, giving the drink a sweeter, more floral taste.

How Hugo Spritz Became So Popular

Originally popular in Italy, Austria, and Germany, the Hugo Spritz quickly gained recognition and spread across Europe. Today, it’s a staple in Italian aperitivo culture, enjoyed worldwide as a light and refreshing summer drink.

Ingredients for a Perfect Hugo Spritz

Essential Ingredients

To make a traditional Hugo Spritz, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 oz (30 ml) elderflower syrup – The key ingredient that adds a delicate floral sweetness.
• 4 oz (120 ml) Prosecco – A dry, sparkling Italian white wine that gives the drink its signature fizz.
• 2 oz (60 ml) soda water – Enhances the bubbles and lightens the drink.
• Fresh mint leaves – Adds aroma and a refreshing touch.
• Ice cubes – Keeps the drink chilled.
• Lime slices – Provides a hint of citrus for balance.

Ingredient Substitutes and Alternatives

If you can’t find certain ingredients, here are some alternatives:

• Elderflower liqueur (St-Germain): If elderflower syrup is unavailable, replace it with St-Germain. However, since it contains alcohol, slightly reduce the Prosecco.
• Alternative Sparkling Wines: If Prosecco isn’t available, you can use Cava, Champagne, or any dry sparkling wine.
• Different Soda Water: Club soda, tonic water, or lightly flavored sparkling water can be used as substitutes.

How to Make a Hugo Spritz – Step-by-Step Guide

Crafting a Hugo Spritz is incredibly simple and requires no special bartending skills. Just follow these easy steps to achieve a perfectly balanced cocktail.

Step 1: Prepare Your Glass

A large wine glass works best, providing enough space for the ingredients, ice, and garnishes. If unavailable, a balloon glass or highball glass can also be used.

Step 2: Fill with Ice and Mint

Start by adding 4-5 large ice cubes to chill the drink. Next, place 3-4 fresh mint leaves into the glass. To enhance the aroma, gently muddle the leaves with a spoon or muddler, releasing their natural oils.

Step 3: Pour the Elderflower Syrup

Measure 1 oz (30 ml) of elderflower syrup and pour it over the ice. For those using elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain), slightly reduce the amount of Prosecco to maintain balance.

Step 4: Add Prosecco and Soda Water

Carefully pour 4 oz (120 ml) of chilled Prosecco into the glass. A slow pour helps preserve the drink’s natural bubbles. Afterward, top it off with 2 oz (60 ml) of soda water for a crisp, refreshing finish.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Complete the drink with a slice of lime or a twist of lime peel for a touch of citrus. For an extra fresh aroma, place a mint sprig on top. Finally, stir gently with a cocktail spoon to blend the flavors. Enjoy immediately!

Best Variations of Hugo Spritz

Want to switch things up? Here are some creative variations of the classic Hugo Spritz.

1. Non-Alcoholic Hugo Spritz (Mocktail Version)

Perfect for those who prefer a zero-alcohol option.

• Replace Prosecco with non-alcoholic sparkling wine or tonic water.
• Keep the elderflower syrup, mint, and lime for the same refreshing taste.

2. Fruity Hugo Spritz

Great for those who love a bit of natural fruitiness.

• Add fresh raspberries, strawberries, or peaches for a fruity twist.
• Infuse with a splash of orange juice for extra citrus notes.

3. Herbal Hugo Spritz

For a more complex, herbal flavor profile.

• Swap mint for fresh basil or rosemary.
• Add a few drops of lavender syrup for a floral boost.

4. Winter Hugo Spritz

A cozy version of the drink for colder months.

• Use hot Prosecco instead of cold for a warming effect.
• Add a cinnamon stick and a splash of apple cider.

5. Aperol Hugo Spritz

A mix between Hugo Spritz and Aperol Spritz.

• Add ½ oz (15 ml) of Aperol for a slightly bitter, citrusy twist.
• Garnish with an orange slice instead of lime.

Tips for Serving the Perfect Hugo Spritz

1. Best Glassware for Hugo Spritz

• Large wine glasses: Allows the drink to breathe and enhances aroma.
• Balloon glasses: Great for keeping the drink well-mixed and aromatic.
• Tall highball glasses: An alternative option for a modern look.

2. Best Food Pairings with Hugo Spritz

The light and floral nature of Hugo Spritz pairs well with a variety of foods:

• Appetizers: Olives, bruschetta, or a light charcuterie board.
• Seafood: Shrimp cocktails, oysters, or smoked salmon.
• Cheese platters: Soft cheeses like burrata, ricotta, or fresh mozzarella.
• Salads: Arugula with parmesan and balsamic dressing for a refreshing pairing.

3. Perfect Serving Temperature

• Chill all ingredients before making the drink.
• Use plenty of ice to keep the drink cool and refreshing.

Awesome! Here’s Part 3, where we’ll cover common mistakes, frequently asked questions, and final thoughts on making the perfect Hugo Spritz.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Hugo Spritz

Even though the Hugo Spritz is a simple cocktail, some mistakes can affect its taste and balance. Here are key things to avoid when making this refreshing drink.

1. Using Too Much Elderflower Syrup

• Elderflower syrup is naturally sweet and floral, but adding too much can overpower the drink.
• Stick to the recommended 1 oz (30 ml) for a well-balanced flavor.

2. Choosing the Wrong Prosecco

• Prosecco comes in different sweetness levels:
  • Brut (very dry)
  • Extra Dry (slightly sweet)
  • Dry (sweeter)
• The best choice for Hugo Spritz is Brut or Extra Dry, as too much sweetness can make the drink too sugary.

3. Not Muddling the Mint Leaves Properly

• Gently muddle the mint leaves to release their natural oils.
• Avoid crushing them too hard, which can make the drink bitter.

4. Pouring Prosecco Too Quickly

• Pour slowly to preserve the bubbles and avoid a flat drink.
• Adding Prosecco before soda water keeps the fizz for longer.

5. Overcrowding the Glass with Ice

• Too much ice can dilute the drink too quickly.
• Use large ice cubes, which melt slower than crushed ice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hugo Spritz

1. What does Hugo Spritz taste like?

The Hugo Spritz has a light, floral, and slightly sweet taste with refreshing mint and citrus notes. The bubbles from Prosecco add an elegant effervescence.

2. Can I make Hugo Spritz in a pitcher?

Yes! Hugo Spritz is great for serving in a large batch.

• Mix Prosecco, elderflower syrup, and soda water in a pitcher.
• Add fresh mint and lime slices just before serving to keep it fresh.
• Serve over ice-filled glasses instead of adding ice to the pitcher (to prevent dilution).

3. What can I use if I don’t have elderflower syrup?

If elderflower syrup is unavailable, use elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain), but reduce the Prosecco slightly since liqueur contains alcohol.

4. Is Hugo Spritz stronger than Aperol Spritz?

No, the Hugo Spritz is lighter because it doesn’t contain a bitter liqueur like Aperol or Campari. The alcohol content is lower, making it a great choice for a mild, refreshing drink.

5. How can I make Hugo Spritz less sweet?

• Reduce the elderflower syrup slightly.
• Use Brut Prosecco instead of Extra Dry or Dry Prosecco.
• Add extra lime juice for more acidity and balance.

Conclusion

The Hugo Spritz is a delightfully refreshing and easy-to-make Italian cocktail, perfect for warm-weather sipping. Its combination of Prosecco, elderflower syrup, soda water, mint, and lime creates a light, bubbly, and floral drink that is both elegant and simple.

Whether you prefer the classic recipe or one of its fun variations, Hugo Spritz is the ideal aperitif to serve at a summer gathering, garden party, or casual evening with friends.

So next time you’re looking for a light and refreshing cocktail, grab a glass, mix up a Hugo Spritz, and enjoy the taste of Italian summer!