What exactly is a Hugo Spritz?

The Hugo Spritz is a refreshing summer cocktail from northern Italy. It's made with elderflower cordial, prosecco, mint, and soda water. It's a lighter, more floral drink than the Aperol Spritz, known for its delicate flavor.

When and where was the Hugo Spritz invented?

The Hugo Spritz was invented in 2005 in South Tyrol, Italy. It quickly became popular in Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and Germany. It's a modern take on the classic Italian aperitivo tradition.

What are the key ingredients in a Hugo Spritz?

The main ingredients are prosecco, elderflower syrup (or St. Germain liqueur), soda water, fresh mint, and a lime slice. These ingredients give it a light and aromatic taste.

How is a Hugo Spritz different from an Aperol Spritz?

The Hugo Spritz uses elderflower instead of Aperol, making it more floral and less bitter. It also has fresh mint, adding a unique herbal freshness.

What type of glass should I use for a Hugo Spritz?

Use a large wine glass or a traditional spritz glass. The wide bowl lets the mint and elderflower aromas develop. It also has room for ice and garnishes.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Hugo Spritz?

Yes! Replace the prosecco with sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine. Keep the elderflower syrup, mint, and lime for the classic taste.

What are some good food pairings with a Hugo Spritz?

Hugo Spritz goes well with light appetizers like bruschetta, caprese salad, olives, charcuterie, and soft cheeses. It's refreshing and perfect for summer gatherings.

How can I customize my Hugo Spritz?

Try different herbs like basil or rosemary instead of mint, or add fresh berries for a fruity twist. Adjust the sweetness by changing the elderflower syrup amount.

What's the best way to garnish a Hugo Spritz?

Use a sprig of fresh mint and a lime slice as traditional garnishes. For elegance, add edible flowers or a small lemon or lime wedge on the glass rim.

How strong is a Hugo Spritz?

The Hugo Spritz has a low alcohol content, around 7-9% ABV. It's a light and enjoyable drink for daytime or early evening.

Hugo Spritz Recipe: 5 Simple Steps for Perfect Italian Cocktail

Name: Hugo Spritz Recipe: Perfect Italian Elderflower Cocktail Guide
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 oz Prosecco (chilled); 1 oz Elderflower syrup or St-Germain liqueur; 1 oz Club soda water; 3-4 fresh mint leaves; 1 lime slice; Ice cubes; Fresh mint sprig for garnish

Description

Refreshing Italian cocktail from South Tyrol featuring elderflower, prosecco, and fresh mint. Perfect summer aperitivo.

Ingredients

Scale

3 oz Prosecco (chilled)

1 oz Elderflower syrup or St-Germain liqueur

1 oz Club soda water

3–4 fresh mint leaves

1 lime slice

Ice cubes

Fresh mint sprig for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Chill all ingredients beforehand

2. Fill large wine glass with ice cubes

3. Gently muddle fresh mint leaves in glass

4. Add lime slice to glass

5. Pour elderflower syrup over ice

6. Slowly add chilled prosecco to preserve bubbles

7. Top with club soda water

8. Stir very gently to combine flavors

9. Garnish with fresh mint sprig and lime slice

Notes

Use high-quality prosecco for best results

Don’t over-muddle mint to avoid bitterness

Serve immediately while bubbles are active

Can substitute elderflower syrup with St-Germain liqueur

For non-alcoholic version, replace prosecco with sparkling water

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Cocktails
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cocktail
Calories: 120
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg