Hugo Spritz

This classic Hugo Spritz recipe is easy to make and the perfect balance of floral, citrusy and bubbly.

It’s the summer of the Hugo Spritz! ♡

We keep spotting this refreshing cocktail on cocktail menus everywhere lately. And it’s easy to see why — light, floral, citrusy, and gently bubbly, it tastes like pure summer in a glass. Originating in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy, I read that the Hugo gained popularity as a lighter, more aromatic alternative to the slightly bitter Aperol or Campari spritzes. I love it because it’s effortlessly elegant, not too sweet, and easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.

Mix up a single serving or batch it in a pitcher (similar to sangria vibes) for easy entertaining. It’s the kind of cocktail that fits right in at patio hangouts, dinner parties, or any moment that deserves a little sparkle. Let’s spritz!

Recipe Tips

When making a Hugo Spritz, here are 5 quick tips to keep in mind:

1. Use chilled ingredients. Start with cold prosecco, soda water, and even chill your glass if you can — it keeps the drink crisp and cool without diluting it too quickly.
2. Pick a dry prosecco. Since elderflower liqueur adds sweetness, I recommend a brut or extra dry prosecco to keep the cocktail balanced and refreshing.
3. Go easy on the elderflower. A little St-Germain goes a long way, so if you’re sensitive to floral flavors, I recommend starting with slightly less elderflower liqueur the recipe calls for and then you can always add more.
4. Adjust to taste. That said, all of these ingredients are adjustable, so feel free to tinker with the amount of mint, citrus and/or soda water to taste.
5. Have fun with garnishes. Feel free to use as sparse or lush garnishes as you prefer. I always enjoy a few lemon rounds and extra mint!

Hugo Spritz Variations

Here are 5 fun variations you can try to put a fresh spin on the classic Hugo Spritz:

• Berry Hugo: Muddle a few fresh strawberries or raspberries into the glass along with the mint.
• Rosé Hugo: Replace the Prosecco with a sparkling rosé.
• Basil Hugo: Swap the mint for fresh basil leaves (or try a mix with both mint and basil).
• Gin Hugo: Add a splash of gin (0.5 to 1 ounce) for a stronger, botanical vibe.
• Cucumber Hugo: Add a few slices of fresh cucumber.
• Spicy Hugo: Muddle a few slices of fresh jalapeño or serrano peppers with the mint.

Print