Hugo Spritz Recipe
Unlike bitter aperitif-based spritzes like the Aperol Spritz and Campari Spritz, the Hugo Spritz uses elderflower liqueur as its base. This makes it a cooler-tasting drink, giving the Prosecco more room to shine. A light and fruity Italian spritz, this contemporary classic was invented in 2005 by Roland Gruber in South Tyrol, Northern Italy. Try this refreshing cocktail with a snack of your choice, such as fresh focaccia or cheese puffs.
Origin of Hugo Spritz
The Hugo Spritz is a refreshing, low-alcohol cocktail perfect for brunch, afternoon garden parties, or al fresco dining. The recipe is easy to follow and can be adjusted to suit your taste.
The sparkling heart of the drink is Prosecco, which gives it its lightness and fizz. Using a high-quality Prosecco such as La Marca or Mionetto, preferably DOC or DOCG, guarantees an authentic and refined flavor. The other key ingredient is elderflower syrup, which adds a delicate floral sweetness. Choose a high-quality syrup, preferably organic and made with genuine elderflowers, for the best results.
For an extra touch, garnish your Hugo Spritz with fresh fruit like raspberries or blueberries, thin cucumber slices, or edible flowers like pansies or violets. A lime slice or a twist of lemon peel adds a bright, citrusy finish.
Invented by Roland Gruber in South Tyrol, the Hugo Spritz is often served during aperitivo or after a day of hiking in the Dolomites. It has also gained popularity in Croatia, Austria, Switzerland, and Germany.
Ingredients for the Perfect Hugo Spritz
The Hugo Spritz is a low-ABV sparkling drink that only requires a few ingredients:
A key ingredient is the St-Germain elderflower liqueur, which reduces the sugar content and adds a floral note to the cocktail. The Prosecco adds bubbles and a light taste, and depending on the variety, it can introduce notes of pear, citrus zest, or floral hints.
For garnish, gently muddle the mint leaves to release their oils, adding to the drink’s aroma. Lime slices enhance both the flavor and presentation.
Popular Variations of Hugo Spritz
The Hugo Spritz is versatile and can be customized in several ways. The most important ingredient is the elderflower liqueur, but you can substitute it with lemon balm syrup for a less-sweet version. Adding club soda or sparkling water provides the signature fizz.
Some popular additions include fresh berries or cucumber slices for a sweet garnish, elevating the overall flavor and aesthetic.
How to Prepare a Hugo Spritz
Here’s a quick and easy method to make the perfect Hugo Spritz:
- Gently muddle 6 fresh mint leaves and 1 oz of elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain) in a large glass.
- Add Prosecco and a splash of soda water or sparkling water.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint, a few berries, and a lime wheel for presentation.
Non-Alcoholic Version
For a non-alcoholic twist, substitute the elderflower liqueur with elderflower cordial and use sparkling water instead of Prosecco.
Serving Suggestions
The Hugo Spritz is the ideal cocktail for warm summer evenings, backyard barbecues, or brunches with friends. It’s also a perfect choice for aperitive before dinner or light appetizers at events like a bridal party or bachelorette party.
