Refreshing Hugo Spritz Recipe: A Light and Breezy Cocktail

Want a crowd-pleasing cocktail? This Hugo Spritz recipe combines prosecco, elderflower, and fresh mint for the ultimate summer sipper. Try it today.

Tired of the same old summer cocktails? Looking for something more sophisticated than a basic spritzer? The Hugo Spritz is your answer to elevated warm-weather drinking. This enchanting cocktail combines the delicate notes of elderflower with crisp prosecco and fresh mint for a drink that’s both elegant and refreshing. As a mixologist with a decade of experience crafting Italian-inspired cocktails, I’ve perfected this recipe to capture the authentic taste of the South Tyrolean favorite. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from selecting the finest ingredients to mastering the perfect pour, plus expert variations and serving suggestions.

Why This Recipe Works

• Uses easily accessible ingredients found in most liquor stores and supermarkets
• Requires minimal prep time – ready in under 5 minutes
• Perfect for both casual afternoons and elegant evening gatherings
• Lighter and more aromatic than traditional Aperol Spritz
• Customizable to various taste preferences
• Ideal for batch preparation when entertaining

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Best Components for This Recipe

The success of a Hugo Spritz lies in the quality of its core ingredients. A good prosecco forms the backbone of this cocktail, while elderflower liqueur provides its distinctive character. Look for dry prosecco (brut) rather than sweet varieties to maintain the drink’s crisp profile.

Buying Tips

• Select St. Germain or a premium elderflower liqueur for the best flavor
• Choose a dry prosecco DOC or DOCG from Italy
• Fresh mint leaves are essential – avoid dried alternatives
• Use filtered or mineral water for the soda component
• Meyer lemons offer a softer citrus note if available

Substitutions

• Replace prosecco with other dry sparkling wines
• Substitute elderflower cordial for liqueur (adjust quantities accordingly)
• Use basil instead of mint for an herbaceous twist
• Consider alcohol-free prosecco for a non-alcoholic version

Ingredients & Prep

Cocktail Essentials

• 2 oz (60ml) prosecco
• 1 oz (30ml) elderflower liqueur
• 1 oz (30ml) soda water
• 4-5 fresh mint leaves
• 1 lime or lemon wheel
• Ice cubes
• Optional: fresh elderflower blossoms (when in season)

Equipment Needed

• Wine glass or large stemmed glass
• Bar spoon
• Jigger or measuring tool
• Ice bucket

Pantry Staples

• Quality ice (large cubes preferred)
• Citrus fruits for garnish
• Extra mint for garnishing

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Pre-Mixing Prep

1. Chill all ingredients thoroughly, especially the prosecco and soda water
2. Gently wash and pat dry fresh mint leaves
3. Prepare ice and glassware
4. Slice citrus wheels for garnish

Mixing Method

1. Fill a large wine glass with ice cubes
2. Add elderflower liqueur
3. Pour in chilled prosecco
4. Top with soda water
5. Gently stir with a bar spoon to combine

Quality Check

• The cocktail should be crystal clear with a slight green tint from the mint
• Bubbles should be active but not aggressive
• Proper ratio ensures the elderflower doesn’t overpower other ingredients

Final Touch

Let the cocktail settle for 30 seconds before garnishing with mint sprig and citrus wheel

Pro Tips for Perfect Hugo Spritz

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Don’t over-muddle the mint – it becomes bitter
• Avoid overloading with ice – it dilutes the prosecco
• Never shake the cocktail – it ruins the carbonation
• Don’t skip the soda water – it balances the sweetness

Tool Recommendations

• Large balloon glasses or wine glasses
• Bar spoon for gentle mixing
• Quality ice molds for larger cubes
• Champagne stopper for leftover prosecco

Storage & Service

• Prepare ingredients ahead but mix to order
• Keep all components well-chilled
• Store elderflower liqueur in the refrigerator after opening

Flavor Variations

Seasonal Twists

• Summer Berry: Add fresh berries and berry liqueur
• Autumn Spice: Include a cinnamon stick and apple slice
• Winter Citrus: Feature blood orange and rosemary
• Spring Flower: Add edible flowers and lavender syrup

Low-Alcohol Version

• Reduce elderflower liqueur amount
• Use sparkling water instead of prosecco
• Add extra botanical elements for complexity

Global Inspirations

• Mediterranean: Add cucumber and basil
• Asian Fusion: Include lychee and Thai basil
• Nordic: Feature lingonberry and pine

Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pairings

• Light appetizers: marinated olives, fresh cheese
• Seafood: smoked salmon, shrimp cocktail
• Fresh fruits: especially stone fruits and berries
• Light pastries and desserts

Occasion Recommendations

• Brunch gatherings
• Garden parties
• Summer weddings
• Aperitivo hour

FAQs

Common Questions

Q: Can I make this in advance for a party?
A: Prepare components separately and mix individual drinks to order to maintain carbonation.

Q: How long does elderflower liqueur last?
A: Once opened, elderflower liqueur stays fresh for about 6 months when refrigerated.

Q: Is this cocktail very strong?
A: No, Hugo Spritz is a relatively light cocktail, with an alcohol content similar to wine.

Q: Can I use frozen mint?
A: Fresh mint is strongly recommended as frozen mint loses its aromatic qualities.

Q: How do I keep the bubbles fresh?
A: Use well-chilled ingredients, stir gently, and serve immediately.