Refreshing Hugo Spritz Recipe: A Light & Bubbly Summer Cocktail

Searching for a light and elegant cocktail to sip on a sunny afternoon? Look no further than the Hugo Spritz — a refreshing Italian aperitif that’s become a favorite in Europe and beyond.

Made with elderflower liqueur, sparkling wine, soda water, and fresh mint, the Hugo Spritz is delightfully crisp, floral, and lightly sweet — the perfect companion for brunches, summer soirées, or relaxed evenings on the patio.

In this easy guide, you’ll learn how to make the perfect Hugo Spritz cocktail in just a few minutes with minimal ingredients.

What Is a Hugo Spritz?

Originating from the South Tyrol region of northern Italy, the Hugo Spritz is a lighter alternative to the classic Aperol Spritz. It combines Prosecco, elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain), and soda water for a sparkling cocktail with a fragrant, floral twist.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make one classic Hugo Spritz:

3 oz Prosecco (or any dry sparkling wine)
1½ oz elderflower liqueur (St-Germain is the most popular)
1–2 oz soda water (to taste)
Fresh mint leaves
1–2 lime slices (optional)
Ice cubes

How to Make a Hugo Spritz

Step 1: Muddle the Mint

In a large wine glass, gently muddle a few fresh mint leaves to release their aroma.

Step 2: Add Ice and Lime

Fill the glass with ice cubes.
Add a couple of lime slices for a citrusy zing (optional but refreshing).

Step 3: Build the Spritz

Pour in the elderflower liqueur.
Add the Prosecco slowly to maintain the bubbles.
Top off with a splash of soda water.

Step 4: Stir and Garnish

Give it a gentle stir.
Garnish with an extra mint sprig and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Hugo Spritz

Use chilled ingredients for maximum refreshment.
Swap Prosecco for non-alcoholic sparkling wine if you want a mocktail version.
Adjust sweetness by adding more or less elderflower liqueur to suit your taste.