If summer had a signature sip, it might be the Hugo Spritz. Light, bubbly, and bursting with fresh mint and floral notes, this Italian spritz is a refreshing twist on the classic Aperol version. Featuring elderflower liqueur and crisp prosecco, it’s the kind of prosecco drink you’ll want to serve on a sun-drenched patio or bring to your next brunch. It’s elegant, easy to make, and effortlessly chic—just like your favorite linen dress.
Why You’ll Love the Hugo Spritz
- Delicate, floral notes with a sparkling finish
- Simple to make, yet feels ultra-fancy
- A crowd-pleaser for warm-weather entertaining
- A lower-alcohol option that won’t weigh you down
Ingredients
- 1/2 oz (15ml) St-Germain elderflower liqueur
- 1 fresh mint sprig
- 4 oz (120ml) chilled prosecco
- 1 oz (30ml) chilled soda water
- Ice cubes, as needed
Garnish:
- Fresh mint sprig
- Lemon wheel
How to Make a Hugo Spritz
- In a wine glass, pour in the St-Germain and add a sprig of fresh mint.
- Gently muddle the mint to release its aromatic oils.
- Let the mixture rest for about 3 minutes to infuse.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Slowly pour in the chilled prosecco, followed by the chilled soda water.
- Stir gently to combine without flattening the fizz.
- Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a lemon wheel.
- Sip, sigh, and soak in the summer vibes.
Tips for the Perfect Elderflower Cocktail
- Use a dry prosecco for balance against the sweet elderflower.
- Don’t skip the mint rest period—it gives the drink that signature herbal edge.
- For an extra citrus kick, add a splash of fresh lime juice.
- Hosting a party? Batch the base (St-Germain + mint) in advance and top each glass with prosecco and soda on the spot.
The First Time I Met Hugo
My first Hugo Spritz happened accidentally in a tiny café in Florence, where the waiter insisted it was “the drink of the summer.” He wasn’t wrong. It was like sunshine in a glass, with a gentle floral pop and just the right amount of sparkle. I sipped it slowly, watching the city hum around me, and knew instantly it would become a staple in my cocktail lineup back home. Now, it’s my go-to for backyard gatherings, patio hangs, or whenever I need a quick escape to the Amalfi Coast.
What to Serve with a Hugo Spritz
This elderflower cocktail pairs beautifully with light bites: think prosciutto-wrapped melon, lemony shrimp skewers, or a crisp arugula salad. It also shines with a charcuterie board full of creamy cheeses and salty crackers. For dessert? Lemon sorbet or almond biscotti keep the vibes breezy and Italian.
How to Store & Batch for a Crowd
You can pre-mix the elderflower liqueur and mint in a pitcher and let it infuse in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When guests arrive, pour into glasses over ice and top each with prosecco and soda water. Don’t store the finished drink—it’s best enjoyed fresh to preserve the bubbles.
FAQs
Can I use a different elderflower liqueur?
Yes! While St-Germain is the classic, other brands work too—just make sure it’s floral and not overly sweet.
Is the Hugo Spritz very sweet?
Nope! It’s balanced with herbal and citrus notes. Adjust the liqueur if you prefer it drier.
Can I make it non-alcoholic?
Try elderflower syrup with sparkling water and fresh mint for a delightful mocktail version.
What’s the best glass to use?
A stemmed wine glass lets the aroma and bubbles shine—plus, it looks lovely.
An Italian Spritz with a Floral Twist
Whether you’re a die-hard Aperol fan or just dabbling in Italian spritz territory, the Hugo Spritz is a prosecco drink worth adding to your repertoire. Light, lovely, and laced with fresh herbs and blooms, it’s everything summer should be—effortless, elegant, and best shared with friends.
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Hugo Spritz: The Italian Elderflower Cocktail That’s Summer in a Glass
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
Description
The Hugo Spritz is a light, floral Italian cocktail made with elderflower liqueur, prosecco, soda water, and fresh mint. It’s an elegant, sparkling drink perfect for warm-weather entertaining or laid-back patio sipping. With its delicate flavor and easy prep, this refreshing prosecco drink brings a touch of summer sophistication to any occasion.
Ingredients
-
1/2 oz (15 ml) St-Germain elderflower liqueur
-
1 fresh mint sprig (plus more for garnish)
-
4 oz (120 ml) chilled prosecco
-
1 oz (30 ml) chilled soda water
-
Ice cubes
Garnish:
-
Fresh mint sprig
-
Lemon wheel
Instructions
-
In a wine glass, pour in the elderflower liqueur and add a sprig of fresh mint.
-
Gently muddle the mint to release aroma. Let sit for 2–3 minutes.
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Fill the glass with ice.
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Slowly add chilled prosecco, then top with soda water.
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Stir gently to combine without losing carbonation.
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Garnish with a lemon wheel and another sprig of mint.
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Serve immediately and enjoy chilled.
Notes
Use dry prosecco to balance the sweetness of the liqueur.
Let the mint infuse before adding ice for a deeper herbal note.
Add a splash of lime juice for a zesty twist.
To batch: mix elderflower and mint ahead, then top individual glasses with prosecco and soda when serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Drinks / Cocktails
- Method: Built in glass
- Cuisine: Italian