Hugo Spritz Recipe

This refreshing Hugo Spritz recipe is a light and bubbly cocktail made with Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, mint, and lime. It’s ideal for warm-weather sipping, whether you’re hosting a summer brunch or relaxing on the patio. This easy to make spritz is the ultimate floral and citrusy aperitif.

If you’re looking for the perfect cocktail to sip on a hot summer day, let me introduce you to the Hugo Spritz—a light, bubbly, and floral drink straight from northern Italy, specifically the South Tyrol region near the Austrian border.

This modern classic cocktail is the refreshing sip you’ve been searching for. Made with bubbly Prosecco, elderflower syrup or St-Germain elderflower liqueur, fresh mint leaves, and a splash of soda water, it’s the perfect aperitivo to enjoy in your own backyard or at your next gathering.

Let’s explore this Hugo spritz recipe, learn why it works, and see how you can easily recreate this refreshing cocktail in just a few simple steps.

Why This Recipe Works

• Light and Effervescent: Thanks to the parts Prosecco and club soda, this drink is crisp, bubbly, and not too heavy—ideal for a hot day.
• Floral and Fresh: The mix of elderflower cordial, fresh mint, and lime slices gives this cocktail a floral flavor and cooling vibe.
• Easy to Make: You don’t need any fancy bar tools—just a large wine glass, some ice cubes, and your favorite sparkling wine.

Supplies Needed

• Large wine glass
• Bar spoon or long-handled spoon
• Muddler or the back of a spoon
• Measuring jigger (optional but helpful)
• Ice cubes

Ingredients

You only need a few simple ingredients to make this classic Hugo spritz:

• Base spirits: Elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain or St. Elder) or elderflower syrup for a non-alcoholic option.
• Sparkling wine: Dry Prosecco, sparkling white wine, or a lighter alternative like mineral water.
• Fizz: A splash of soda water, club soda, or even tonic water.
• Herbs and fruit: Fresh mint leaves and lime slices or lemon wheel for garnish.

Looking for a different twist? Swap in lemon balm syrup or try it with a bitter liqueur for a more bitter aperitif flavor.

How to Make a Hugo Spritz Cocktail

1. In a large wine glass, gently muddle the mint leaves to release their aroma.
2. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
3. Add your elderflower liqueur, then pour in the Prosecco and finish with a splash of soda water.
4. Stir gently to mix everything together.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel or lemon slice and a sprig of mint.

That’s it! The hardest part might be making only one.

Variations

Want to change it up? Try these fun spins on the Hugo cocktail recipe:

• Berry Hugo: Add a few fresh fruit berries for color and sweetness.
• Cucumber Hugo: Swap the lime for cucumber slices for spa-day vibes.
• Rosé Hugo: Use a dry rosé sparkling wine instead of traditional Prosecco.
• Low-alcohol version: Use more soda water and less alcohol for a lighter option.

What to Pair With It

This delicious cocktail pairs perfectly with light bites and classic Italian cocktail hour favorites like:

• Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad made with delicious creamy Boursin cheese and fresh basil
• Crispy Italian-style goat cheese balls dipped in marinara sauce paired with charcuterie
• These meditereanian infused Lavash Pizzas
• Light and refreshing seafood like this grilled shrimp rolls or mussels in white wine cream sauce
• Go for a summer brunch and make this beautiful caviar board

More Cocktails To Try

Rose Aperol Spritz

Prosecco Mint Juelps

Earl Grey Gin Fizz

White Wine Slushies