As the warm summer sun touches your skin, the smell of fresh herbs and a cold drink calls you. Welcome to the Hugo Spritz, a light and refreshing cocktail. It’s a great choice for those who love a lighter drink than traditional Italian aperitifs.
In this guide, we’ll explore Hugo Spritz’s origins and evolution, as well as the unique flavors and techniques that make it special. Whether planning a summer party or just trying something new, learning to make a Hugo Spritz is worth it.
Table of Contents
What is a Hugo Spritz and Its Origins in Northern Italy
The Hugo cocktail, also known as the Hugo Spritz, is a refreshing and floral aperitif. throughout recent years, it has gained a lot of popularity throughout Europe. It comes from South Tyrol in Northern Italy, offering a new twist to the Aperol Spritz and Spritz Veneziano.
The Birth of Hugo Spritz in South Tyrol
In Naturno, South Tyrol, a local bartender created the Hugo Spritz. He wanted a lighter, more fragrant drink than the traditional Italian aperitif. He mixed sparkling wine with elderflower, mint, and lime, making the Hugo Spritz. It quickly became a favorite in the region’s bars.
How Hugo Differs from Other Italian Aperitifs
The Hugo cocktail is different from the Aperol Spritz and Spritz Veneziano. It has a delicate balance of flavors. Elderflower and mint add a subtle touch, while the sparkling wine adds crispness. It’s perfect for hot summer days.
The Rise in Popularity of Hugo Cocktails
The Hugo Spritz became popular as people looked for lighter, floral drinks. It’s now found in bars from Milan to Vienna. It’s loved for its refreshing taste and the way it reminds people of Northern Italy’s beauty.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Hugo Spritz Recipe
To make a true Hugo Spritz, you need top-notch ingredients. The drink starts with prosecco, but the real magic comes from elderflower liqueur or syrup. These add a floral touch, along with fresh mint and sparkling water, making it a light and bubbly Italian wine cocktail.
Choose a dry or extra-dry prosecco to match the elderflower’s sweetness. Mionetto, Cinzano, and Riondo are great picks for the bubbly base. For elderflower, St-Germain is a favorite, but try local or artisanal options from Northern Italy too.
Fresh mint leaves are the last piece, adding a cool herbal flavor to the Hugo Spritz. Make sure to gently press the mint before mixing to get its full aroma. And remember, a bit of sparkling water is key to diluting the flavors and keeping it light.
Ingredient | Recommended Brands |
---|---|
Prosecco | Mionetto, Cinzano, Riondo |
Elderflower Liqueur | St-Germain |
Fresh Mint Leaves | – |
Sparkling Water | – |
With these key ingredients, you’re ready to make the perfect Hugo Spritz. This refreshing and elegant drink will transport you to Northern Italy’s beautiful landscapes.
Step-by-Step Hugo Spritz Recipe
Making the perfect Hugo Spritz is easy. Just follow these simple steps to create a refreshing Italian-inspired cocktail at home. Let’s explore how to mix up a delightful Hugo Spritz.
Preparing Your Glassware
First, pick the right glass. Hugo Spritz is best in a large wine glass or highball glass. This size lets you add ice and garnishes easily. Chill your glass in the fridge for a few minutes to keep it cold.
Mixing Techniques for the Best Results
- Fill your chilled glass with ice cubes to the top.
- Pour in 3 parts prosecco drinks, your preferred Italian sparkling wine.
- Add 1 part elderflower syrup for a floral note.
- Top off with a splash of soda water, roughly 1 part.
- Gently stir the ingredients to combine, being careful not to over-agitate the fizz.
Garnishing Your Hugo Spritz
The final step is the garnish. Traditionally, a sprig of fresh mint is used. It adds a refreshing aroma and enhances the flavor. You can also try a thin slice of lemon or a few raspberries for a different twist.
By following these steps, you can make a Hugo Spritz as good as those in Northern Italy’s cafes. Enjoy your homemade version and savor the taste of this delightful Italian-inspired cocktail.

Tips for Serving and Pairing Your Hugo Spritz
As summer gets warmer, the Hugo Spritz cocktail is a hit for aperitivo hour and outdoor parties. Here are some tips to enjoy your Hugo Spritz to the fullest.
To keep your Hugo Spritz light and bubbly, chill your glassware. Serving it over ice is a good idea for hot days. Add a sprig of fresh mint, a lemon or lime slice, or elderflower blossoms for a nice look and smell.
Choosing the right foods to pair with your Hugo Spritz can make it even better. Its floral and citrus flavors go well with light summer dishes like aperitivo bites, fresh salads, or grilled seafood. Try it with bruschetta, prosciutto e melone, or cured meats and cheeses for a great aperitivo experience.
For a big summer party, add the Hugo Spritz to your drink list. It’s perfect for both casual aperitivo hours and fancy cocktail parties. Offer it as a pre-dinner drink or for guests wanting to try northern Italian flavors.

Enjoying a Hugo Spritz is all about the relaxed, aperitivo vibe it brings. Take your time, enjoy the taste, and let the Hugo Spritz take you to northern Italy’s beautiful spots.
Conclusion
The Hugo Spritz has become a modern classic in Italian aperitif wines. It’s loved by cocktail fans for its refreshing and flexible appeal. This cocktail, from South Tyrol, mixes flavors perfectly, making it great for any event.
Creating the perfect Hugo Spritz is all about choosing the right ingredients. You need the crisp Italian aperitif wines, the sweet elderflower, and the bubbly mineral water. By following our recipe, you can make this Northern Italian cocktail at home. It’s sure to wow your taste buds and impress your friends.
The hugo spritz recipe is perfect for any occasion. It’s great for summer parties, unwinding after work, or just relaxing. Try out this amazing cocktail and share it with your loved ones. Cheers to Italian aperitif traditions and the timeless Hugo Spritz.
FAQ
What is a Hugo Spritz?
A Hugo Spritz is a light, refreshing cocktail from South Tyrol, Northern Italy. It’s a modern twist on the Venetian aperitif. It combines prosecco, elderflower liqueur or syrup, and sparkling water. It’s often garnished with fresh mint leaves.
How does a Hugo Spritz differ from an Aperol Spritz?
A Hugo Spritz has a floral and delicate taste, unlike the bittersweet Aperol Spritz. It uses elderflower liqueur or syrup instead of Aperol. This makes the Hugo Spritz lighter and less bitter.
Which components are necessary to make a Hugo Spritz?
The key ingredients for a Hugo Spritz are prosecco, elderflower liqueur or syrup, sparkling water, and fresh mint leaves. These ingredients together create the drink’s signature flavor and fizz.
How do I make a Hugo Spritz at home?
To make a Hugo Spritz at home, chill your glassware first. Add ice cubes, and a shot of elderflower liqueur or syrup, and top with chilled prosecco and sparkling water. Mix softly and top with a sprig of fresh mint. Finding the right mix of ingredients is crucial for the perfect taste.
What are some tips for serving and pairing a Hugo Spritz?
For the best Hugo Spritz experience, serve it chilled in a wine glass or a large wine-style glass. It pairs well with light, summery foods like fresh salads, seafood, and charcuterie. Enjoy it during the aperitivo hour or at any summer event.