As someone who adores fresh, light cocktails and spends a lot of time in the kitchen testing recipes, the Hugo Spritz has become one of my absolute favourites.
With its crisp elderflower notes, refreshing mint, and gentle fizz, it’s the perfect balance of aromatic and uplifting, ideal for summer evenings in the garden or as an aperitif before dinner.
Let me walk you through exactly how to make the best Hugo Spritz recipe at home, from choosing the right ingredients to exploring delicious variations from renowned chefs and mixologists.
What Is Hugo Spritz?
The Hugo Spritz is a sparkling cocktail that originated in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy around 2005. Created by bartender Roland Gruber, this drink was meant as a refreshing alternative to the classic Aperol Spritz. It quickly gained popularity across Europe and eventually globally, becoming synonymous with warm-weather sipping.
Unlike its orange-hued cousin, the Hugo features elderflower syrup instead of bitter liqueurs. This shift results in a much lighter, more floral drink, with Prosecco, soda water, and fresh mint giving it a crisp, revitalising finish.
Key Characteristics
- Light and bubbly with a floral, aromatic flavour
- Lower in alcohol compared to many classic cocktails
- Often served in a large wine glass or balloon glass with lots of ice
- Elegant yet simple, perfect for relaxed entertaining
The Hugo Spritz continues to evolve, with variations appearing on menus from Italy to London. What remains constant is its association with slow summer days, laughter with friends, and effortless sophistication in every sip.
Ingredients for Hugo Spritz
Getting the Hugo Spritz right is all about fresh ingredients and balanced proportions. Each component plays a specific role in achieving the cocktail’s signature aroma and texture.
Ingredient Table
| Quantity | Ingredient |
| 90ml | Prosecco (chilled) |
| 60ml | Sparkling water (soda) |
| 30ml | Elderflower syrup |
| 3–4 sprigs | Fresh mint |
| 2 slices | Fresh lime |
| To fill the glass | Ice cubes |
Key Tips
- Prosecco: Use a dry or extra dry Prosecco (not sweet) for balance.
- Elderflower Syrup: Brands like Belvoir or Bottlegreen work well; you can also use St-Germain elderflower liqueur for a boozy twist.
- Mint: Gently clap the mint between your palms to release the oils before adding it to the glass.
- Lime: Thin slices or a small wedge is enough to lift the citrus aroma without overpowering.
Choosing high-quality, chilled ingredients ensures the Hugo Spritz remains refreshing without needing too much dilution from ice.
How to Make the Perfect Hugo Spritz at Home?
Making a Hugo Spritz is simple and quick, yet attention to detail makes all the difference in its final flavour. Here’s how I perfect mine at home.
Tools You’ll Need
- Balloon or large wine glass
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring jigger
- Citrus knife or peeler
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Fill a large wine glass with ice, almost to the top, to keep it chilled.
- Add fresh mint, 3 to 4 sprigs, lightly crushed or clapped to release aroma.
- Pour in 30ml elderflower syrup, or 25ml if you prefer it less sweet.
- Add lime slices, 2 thin slices, or a small wedge.
- Top with 90ml Prosecco, make sure it’s nicely chilled.
- Add 60ml sparkling water for that gentle fizz.
- Stir gently, once or twice, enough to combine without losing bubbles.
- Garnish with a mint sprig and lime wheel for visual appeal and extra aroma.
This method provides a perfectly layered cocktail that is crisp, floral, and not overly sweet.
Hugo Spritz Recipe Variations
One of the reasons I love the Hugo Spritz is how adaptable it is. Whether you want something lower in sugar or more adventurous, here are some creative spins:
Favourite Variations
- Berry Hugo: Add a few muddled raspberries or strawberries for a fruity flair.
- Rosé Hugo: Replace Prosecco with sparkling rosé for a pink, berry-forward version.
- Gin Hugo: Add 15ml of dry gin to boost complexity without overpowering the elderflower.
- Coconut Hugo: Use coconut water instead of soda water for a tropical twist.
- Frozen Hugo Slush: Blend all ingredients with crushed ice for a summer slushie.
- Non-Alcoholic Hugo: Use alcohol-free sparkling wine and elderflower cordial.
Each variation provides a new experience while staying true to Hugo’s refreshing roots.
Famous Chef and Mixologist Variations of the Hugo Spritz
Many culinary professionals have taken the Hugo Spritz and made it their own. Here are some standout recipes that inspired me:
Jamie Oliver’s Elderflower Prosecco Hugo
- Uses elderflower cordial and freshly picked garden mint
- Recommends serving with lemon zest for extra citrus pop
Difford’s Guide Signature Hugo
- Adds a dash of orange bitters to elevate depth
- Emphasises the importance of fine sparkling water like Perrier or San Pellegrino
Amy’s Nutrition Kitchen Healthy Hugo
- Uses low-sugar elderflower syrup and organic Prosecco
- Garnishes with cucumber ribbons for a spa-like feel
BBC Good Food’s Classic Mint Hugo
- Sticks to the original structure
- Advises on pairing it with summer canapés or light pasta salads
Food & Wine’s Rosé Hugo Twist
- Replaces white Prosecco with rosé and adds rose water
- Light, romantic, and floral
Seasoned & Salted’s Elderflower Spritz
- Focuses on balance, not too sweet, not too bubbly
- Offers both a cocktail and a mocktail version
M&S Traditional Hugo Cocktail
- Classic approach with elderflower pressé
- Available as a ready-made bottle from M&S stores
Liquor.com’s Low-Alcohol Summer Hugo
- Uses St-Germain liqueur and tops with soda for a balanced alcohol content
- Includes tips on layering the drink for better visual presentation
When and Where to Serve Hugo Spritz?
Hugo Spritz is a social drink, it’s best enjoyed with good company and beautiful weather. Whether you’re hosting friends or relaxing on a Sunday afternoon, it’s versatile and always well-received.
Best Occasions
- Garden brunches or picnics
- Barbecues and outdoor dinners
- Summer weddings and anniversaries
- Aperitif before a light Italian meal
Serving Tips
- Use a stemmed balloon glass to keep the drink cold
- Garnish generously with herbs and citrus
- Pair with floral table settings and nibbles like crostini or cheese boards
Tips for a Professional Finish
When serving cocktails at home, small touches can elevate your drink to a bar-quality experience.
My Go-To Tips
- Use premium ingredients: Prosecco DOCG and real elderflower syrup make a big difference.
- Muddle mint carefully: bruising it too much can turn the flavour bitter.
- Avoid warm soda: it will go flat quickly and dilute the drink.
- Garnish with care: lime wheels, edible flowers, or even cucumber ribbons enhance the look and aroma.
Presentation matters just as much as taste, and a thoughtfully made Hugo Spritz feels truly special.
Common Mistakes to Avoid With Hugo Spritz
As with many simple cocktails, it’s easy to make small errors that throw off the balance. Here are mistakes I’ve learned to avoid:
Common Pitfalls
- Using sweet Prosecco, it can overpower the elderflower and become cloying.
- Skipping fresh mint, dried mint, or mint extract doesn’t have the same effect.
- Not chilling your ingredients results in fast-melting ice and diluted flavour.
- Overstirring flattens the bubbles and loses the spritz.
Paying attention to freshness, proportions, and temperature keeps your Hugo crisp and clean.
Nutritional Info and Alcohol Content
If you’re like me and want to know what’s going into your glass, here’s a breakdown of a standard Hugo Spritz.
Nutrition Table (Per Serving)
| Component | Value |
| Calories | 120–150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 10–15g |
| Sugar | 9–12g |
| Alcohol (ABV) | 6%–7% |
| Fat | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
Notes
- Opt for low-sugar elderflower syrup to reduce total carbs
- Using St-Germain instead of syrup increases alcohol content to approximately. 10% ABV
- Alcohol-free versions reduce calories significantly
Storing Elderflower Syrup and Prepping Ahead
If you’re planning a gathering, making parts of your Hugo Spritz ahead of time can save effort.
Prepping Advice
- Elderflower syrup lasts for 3–4 weeks in the fridge once opened
- Pre-slice limes and wash mint just before the event to maintain freshness
- Pre-chill all liquids in advance to minimise ice melt
Avoid mixing all ingredients too early, as Prosecco and soda water will go flat.
Pairing Hugo Spritz With Food
The floral, citrusy nature of a Hugo Spritz makes it perfect for light bites and fresh dishes.
Great Pairings
- Antipasti platters: olives, cured meats, and pickled vegetables
- Goat cheese and fig crostini
- Smoked salmon blinis
- Lemon sorbet or elderflower panna cotta for dessert
It’s a perfect match for dishes that highlight herbs, light citrus, or floral notes.
Conclusion
The Hugo Spritz is a beautifully refreshing cocktail that combines simplicity with elegance. With just a few carefully chosen ingredients, it offers a light, floral flavour perfect for summer gatherings or relaxing evenings.
Whether you stick to the classic or try one of the many variations, it’s a drink that never fails to impress. I hope this guide helps you craft your perfect Hugo Spritz at home. Cheers to effortless sipping and sunny moments!
FAQs
Can I Make Hugo Spritz Without Alcohol?
Yes, substitute Prosecco with alcohol-free sparkling wine and use elderflower cordial. The taste stays fresh and floral with far fewer calories.
Is St-Germain the Same as Elderflower Syrup?
Not exactly. St-Germain is an elderflower liqueur, so it contains alcohol. Syrup is non-alcoholic and sweeter.
What’s the Best Glass for Serving Hugo Spritz?
A large wine glass or balloon glass helps contain the ice, mint, and bubbles while enhancing aroma.
How Do I Store Leftover Hugo Spritz?
It’s best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store mixed ingredients (minus bubbles) for up to 24 hours in the fridge.
Can I Use Champagne Instead of Prosecco?
Yes, but use a dry variety to keep the sweetness balanced. Champagne also raises the alcohol content.
Hugo Spritz Recipe
Ingredients
- 90 ml Prosecco chilled
- 60 ml Sparkling water soda
- 30 ml Elderflower syrup
- 3–4 sprigs Fresh mint
- 2 slices Fresh lime
- Ice cubes To fill the glass
Instructions
- Fill a large wine glass with ice, almost to the top, to keep it chilled.Ice cubes
- Add fresh mint, 3 to 4 sprigs, lightly crushed or clapped to release aroma.3–4 sprigs Fresh mint
- Pour in 30ml elderflower syrup, or 25ml if you prefer it less sweet.30 ml Elderflower syrup
- Add lime slices, 2 thin slices, or a small wedge.2 slices Fresh lime
- Top with 90ml Prosecco, make sure it’s nicely chilled.90 ml Prosecco
- Add 60ml sparkling water for that gentle fizz.60 ml Sparkling water
- Stir gently, once or twice, enough to combine without losing bubbles.
- Garnish with a mint sprig and lime wheel for visual appeal and extra aroma.
