Hugo Spritz is more than just a cocktail: it’s a refreshing experience that captures the essence of Italian conviviality. This recipe, with its unmistakable blend of sparkling Prosecco, aromatic elderflower syrup, and a hint of soda, offers a perfect balance of sweetness and freshness. If you’ve been searching for the perfect Hugo Spritz recipe, look no further!
If I were to describe my summer with a single drink, it would undoubtedly be the Hugo Spritz. A friend of mine made an exquisite one for me back in June, and since then, I’ve been completely hooked. It became my favorite cocktail throughout the season, and I’ve tasted it in many different places, developing a discerning palate for it. Now, I want to share how you can recreate this delightful cocktail at home.
What’s Hugo Spritz?
This delicious cocktail was invented in 2005 by Roland Gruber, a bartender from the small town of Naturno, as an alternative to the traditional Spritz. Initially, the recipe included lemon balm syrup, but this was later replaced by elderflower syrup, which is more readily available.
Interestingly, the name ‘Hugo’ was chosen somewhat randomly by its creator; he initially considered the name ‘Otto’ but didn’t find it fitting.
The Hugo Spritz rapidly became very popular in Trentino Alto Adige and in the Triveneto region, and then started spreading internationally.
What I love About Hugo Spritz
Compared to the classic Aperol Spritz, the Hugo Spritz has a sweeter flavor and is overall more refreshing thanks to the combination of elderflower syrup and mint leaves. This summer I had to work a lot under the sun, and I found that this combination is a really good pick-me-up after a long day.
Plus, it’s so simple to make, and yet it has somewhat of an elegant touch in it.
If you give it a try, I’m sure you’ll love it too!
What You’ll Need to Make a Hugo Spritz
- Prosecco: The sparkling heart of the cocktail, Prosecco should be of good quality, preferably DOC or DOCG to ensure an authentic and refined flavor. An extra-dry or brut Prosecco is ideal, as it offers a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity, enhancing the other ingredients without overpowering them.
- Elderflower Syrup: This syrup gives the cocktail its unique floral sweetness. It’s important to choose a high-quality syrup, ideally organic, made with real elderflowers. Elderflower syrup not only adds sweetness but also a delicate floral scent and flavor that are characteristic of the Hugo Spritz.
- Seltzer or Sparkling Water: This ingredient adds freshness and lightness to the cocktail. It’s advisable to use good quality seltzer or sparkling water, which should be fizzy enough to keep the cocktail lively. The sparkling water should not have a strong taste, so as not to disturb the delicate balance of the other ingredients.
- Mint Leaves: Mint adds a touch of freshness and a pleasant aroma. Fresh mint leaves, which are green and aromatic, are preferable. The leaves should be gently added to the cocktail to avoid overpowering the taste, maintaining a harmonious balance with the other ingredients.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Hugo Spritz
1. Chill the Glass
Start by chilling a wine glass or goblet in the refrigerator to keep your Hugo Spritz cool and refreshing.
Why this is important: A chilled glass ensures the cocktail stays colder for longer, enhancing its refreshing appeal. If you’re short on time, you can also fill the glass with ice for a few minutes before starting, then discard the ice before making the drink.
2. Add Ice
Fill the chilled glass halfway with ice cubes.
Tip: Use large ice cubes, as they melt more slowly and won’t dilute your drink as quickly. If you want to get creative, you can freeze edible flowers or mint leaves into the ice cubes for a decorative touch.
3. Pour Elderflower Syrup
Gently pour the elderflower syrup over the ice.
Substitution Idea: If you don’t have elderflower syrup, try using lavender, rose, or even hibiscus syrup for a unique twist on the classic Hugo Spritz. Each offers its own distinct floral note.
4. Add Prosecco
Slowly add Prosecco to preserve its bubbles and create a lively texture.
Why this is important: Pouring too quickly can flatten the bubbles, which are essential to the effervescent charm of a Hugo Spritz. Opt for extra-dry or brut Prosecco to balance the sweetness of the syrup.
5. Top with Seltzer or Sparkling Water
Finish with a splash of sparkling water to lighten the cocktail.
Tip: Use unflavored sparkling water or seltzer to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors of elderflower and Prosecco. For an alcohol-free version, replace the Prosecco entirely with flavored sparkling water or a high-quality non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
6. Garnish with Mint
Add fresh mint leaves and optional lime slices for a final aromatic touch.
Pro Tip: Gently slap the mint leaves between your palms before adding them to the glass. This releases the essential oils, intensifying the aroma and flavor. Lime slices not only add color but also provide a zesty contrast to the sweetness of the cocktail.
7. Serve Immediately
Your Hugo Spritz is ready—serve it fresh to enjoy its perfect blend of bubbles, sweetness, and herbal notes.
Why this is important: The fizz from the Prosecco and sparkling water is at its best when freshly made, so don’t wait too long to serve. Pair it with light appetizers or enjoy it on its own as a refreshing treat.
FAQ: All About Hugo Spritz
What makes Hugo Spritz different from Aperol Spritz?
While Aperol Spritz is known for its bittersweet flavor, the Hugo Spritz stands out for its floral sweetness, thanks to elderflower syrup and mint.
Can I make a non-alcoholic Hugo Spritz?
Absolutely! Substitute Prosecco with sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine for a refreshing mocktail.
Can I use other syrups besides elderflower?
Yes, syrups like lavender, rose, or even mixed berries can add a unique twist to your Hugo Spritz.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Hugo Spritz
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of Prosecco and elderflower syrup significantly affects the final taste.
- Don’t Over-Stir: Stirring too much will reduce the effervescence of Prosecco.
- Experiment with Garnishes: Add fresh fruits like raspberries or lime slices for added flavor and color.
Variations of the Hugo Spritz
The Hugo Spritz is a versatile cocktail that lends itself to numerous variations. While the classic recipe is beloved by many, here are some ideas for personalizing it:
Syrup Variations: Beyond elderflower syrup, you can experiment with syrups from other flowers or fruits to add a different twist to your cocktail. Lavender, rose, or mixed berry syrups can offer a new flavor profile.
Adding Fresh Fruit: Incorporating fresh fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or slices of lime can enrich the cocktail with natural flavors and a pleasant texture.
Alcoholic Variation: For a more alcoholic version, you can add a small amount of gin or vodka. This will add an extra layer of complexity to the cocktail.
Non-Alcoholic Version: For a non-alcoholic version, replace Prosecco with flavored sparkling water or sparkling fruit juice. This will make the cocktail suitable for everyone, while maintaining its refreshing character.
Experimenting with these elements can lead you to discover your ideal version of the Hugo Spritz, tailoring it to your tastes or the occasion.
From its humble beginnings in South Tyrol, the Hugo Spritz has captured the hearts of many, spreading throughout Italy and beyond. Its simplicity and versatility make it perfect for any occasion, from relaxing evenings to lively parties.
I know you’ll love this Hugo Spritz recipe.
Make it nice.
And don’t forget to comment below with your suggestions or favorite variations!
Check out more refreshing cocktail recipes on our website.
Hugo Spritz
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 1x
Ingredients
2 oz Prosecco
2 oz Seltzer
1 oz Elderflower Syrup
ice to taste
mint leaves
1 or 2 slices of lime (optional)
Instructions
- Start by chilling a wine glass or goblet in the refrigerator for a few minutes. A cold glass helps keep the cocktail cool longer.
- Fill the chilled glass with ice cubes up to about halfway.
- Add a moderate amount of elderflower syrup over the ice
- Gently pour Prosecco over the syrup and ice, leaving some space at the top for the sparkling water.
- Add a splash of seltzer or sparkling water to bring the cocktail to the desired level, avoiding over-stirring to keep the bubbles intact.
- Add a few fresh mint leaves for decoration and to add a refreshing aroma.
- Enjoy your fresh and bubbly Hugo Spritz!
- Prep Time: 5 Minutes
- Category: Cocktails
- Cuisine: Italian
