The Hugo Spritz is a delightfully refreshing cocktail from Northern Italy that’s become a favorite warm-weather aperitivo across Europe. With its crisp prosecco base, floral elderflower liqueur, bubbly soda water, and fragrant mint, it’s a light, elegant drink that’s both simple to make and stunning to serve. A lime slice adds a bright citrus note, making this cocktail a perfect companion for summer afternoons and garden parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Hugo Spritz is everything you want in a summer cocktail: light, bubbly, and easy to prepare. It’s lower in alcohol than many mixed drinks, making it ideal for brunch, afternoon gatherings, or aperitivo hour. The combination of elderflower and mint offers a floral, herbal twist that feels both sophisticated and refreshing. Best of all, it comes together in just minutes with no need for shaking or special tools.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 oz prosecco (chilled)
1 oz elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain)
1 oz soda water (or sparkling water)
Fresh mint leaves
Lime slices
Ice cubes

directions

Fill a large wine glass generously with ice cubes.
Add the elderflower liqueur and gently stir to chill and infuse the ice.
Pour in the chilled prosecco.
Top with soda water to your desired level of effervescence.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a thin slice of lime.
Serve immediately while cold and bubbly.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Calories per serving: 130 kcal

Variations

Rosé Hugo: Use sparkling rosé instead of prosecco for a colorful twist.
Frozen Hugo: Blend ingredients with crushed ice for a slushy-style summer drink.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace prosecco with non-alcoholic sparkling wine and use elderflower cordial instead of liqueur.
Berry Garnish: Add fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fruity flair.
Herbal Infusion: Substitute or mix mint with basil for a unique herbal finish.

storage/reheating

This cocktail is best prepared and served fresh. It does not store well once mixed, as the carbonation will dissipate and the mint may wilt. For convenience at gatherings, you can pre-measure the elderflower liqueur into glasses and chill the prosecco and soda water ahead of time. Assemble just before serving.

FAQs

What is a Hugo Spritz made of?

A Hugo Spritz is made from prosecco, elderflower liqueur, soda water, fresh mint, and lime over ice.

Can I make a Hugo Spritz without prosecco?

Yes, you can substitute prosecco with another sparkling wine or a non-alcoholic sparkling beverage for a lighter version.

What kind of glass should I use?

A large wine glass is traditionally used for Hugo Spritz to allow room for ice and garnishes.

Can I use elderflower syrup instead of liqueur?

Yes, for a non-alcoholic version, use elderflower syrup or cordial in place of the liqueur.

Is Hugo Spritz a strong drink?

It’s relatively light in alcohol compared to many cocktails, making it ideal for daytime or casual sipping.

What does elderflower liqueur taste like?

Elderflower liqueur has a floral, slightly sweet, and subtly fruity flavor that pairs beautifully with citrus and herbs.

Can I batch this cocktail for a party?

Yes, scale up the ingredients and mix gently in a pitcher without ice. Pour over ice and garnish per glass when serving.

What’s the origin of the Hugo Spritz?

The drink originated in South Tyrol, a region in Northern Italy, as a lighter alternative to the Aperol Spritz.

Can I use club soda instead of sparkling water?

Yes, club soda works well and adds a slightly saltier, more mineral-like taste than plain sparkling water.

How do I keep the mint fresh in the glass?

Lightly slap the mint leaves between your hands before adding to the drink to release their aroma and flavor without wilting them.

Conclusion

The Hugo Spritz is a sophisticated yet effortless cocktail perfect for sunny afternoons, elegant brunches, or casual get-togethers. With its aromatic blend of elderflower, mint, lime, and prosecco, it’s a refreshing drink that feels luxurious without being fussy. Keep this recipe on hand for any occasion that calls for a chic, sparkling sip.

Hugo Spritz Cocktail with Prosecco

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Mari
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 cocktail
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Hugo Spritz Cocktail with Prosecco is a light and floral Italian aperitivo made with bubbly prosecco, elderflower liqueur, soda water, and fresh mint. This refreshing drink is perfect for summer evenings, garden parties, or a stylish brunch sip—effortless, elegant, and ice-cold.