Can I use elderflower syrup instead of liqueur?

Absolutely! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version or simply don’t have elderflower liqueur, good-quality elderflower syrup works perfectly. Just adjust the sweetness to taste, as syrups are usually sweeter than liqueur.

What’s the best glass for a Hugo Spritz?

A large wine glass is traditional—it allows room for plenty of ice and garnishes, and helps showcase the drink’s stunning look and aroma. A stemmed glass also keeps your drink colder for longer.

Can I make a pitcher of Hugo Spritz for a party?

Definitely! Just scale up the ingredients, add them to a large pitcher with lots of ice, and give a gentle stir. Add the prosecco right before serving to keep it bubbly.

How do I make my Hugo Spritz less sweet?

Use a drier prosecco and reduce the amount of elderflower syrup or liqueur. A little extra fresh lime juice or soda water can also help balance the sweetness.

Hugo Spritz

Name: Hugo Spritz
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 serving
Cuisine: Cocktail
Ingredients: 3 oz Prosecco; 0.75 oz Elderflower liqueur or syrup; 2 oz Soda water; 0.5 oz Fresh lime juice; 6 Fresh mint leaves; 1 Lime wheel

The Hugo Spritz is a delightfully refreshing cocktail that captures the spirit of summer in a glass. With floral elderflower, crisp prosecco, and invigorating mint, it’s the ideal drink for lounging on a sunlit patio or toasting with friends during golden hour. Light, bubbly, and elegantly aromatic, the Hugo Spritz is a taste of the Italian Alps, wherever you are.

5 minutesEasy1 serving

Featured

Ingredients

1 serving

Prosecco
90 ml (3 oz)
Chilled, for a light bubbly base
Elderflower liqueur or syrup
25 ml (0.75 oz)
St-Germain liqueur or a quality elderflower syrup
Soda water
60 ml (2 oz)
Chilled, to lengthen and refresh
Fresh lime juice
15 ml (0.5 oz)
Adds brightness and balance
Fresh mint leaves
6
Plus extra for garnish
Lime wheel
1
For garnish

Tools Needed

Wine glass or large stemmed glass
Bar spoon
Measuring jigger
Muddler (optional, for mint)

Instructions

Fill a large wine glass generously with ice.
Add the fresh mint leaves and gently clap them between your hands to release their aroma. Drop them into the glass.
Pour in the elderflower liqueur or syrup, followed by the fresh lime juice.
Add the chilled prosecco, then top with soda water.
Give the drink a gentle stir with a bar spoon to combine—avoid over-stirring to keep the bubbles lively.
Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a lime wheel. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Cocktail

Light and incredibly refreshing—perfect for hot weather
Easy to make with just a handful of ingredients
Beautifully aromatic thanks to fresh mint and elderflower
Low in alcohol, making it ideal for leisurely sipping
Impresses guests with its elegant presentation

History & Origin

The Hugo Spritz is a relatively modern classic, born in the South Tyrol region of Northern Italy around 2005. Created by bartender Roland Gruber as a lighter alternative to the Aperol Spritz, the Hugo quickly spread throughout Europe and beyond. Its signature blend of prosecco, elderflower syrup, soda water, and fresh mint gives it a uniquely alpine essence, making it a favorite among summer drinkers and aperitivo aficionados.

Garnish

A fresh mint sprig and a lime wheel—the mint gives an aromatic lift with every sip, while the lime wheel adds color and a hint of citrus oil to the nose.

Nutrition Info

Approximately 130 calories per serving. Contains about 11g sugar (depending on elderflower syrup/liqueur used), and is relatively low in alcohol compared to many cocktails.

Frequently Asked Questions

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