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Hugo Spritz Recipe

Hugo Spritz Recipe

By What’s Baking

A refreshing fusion of elderflower, prosecco, mint, and soda water creates a sophisticated summer spritz that balances floral sweetness with sparkling effervescence.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
3 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
A tall wine glass captures the Hugo Spritz in perfect clarity, with delicate bubbles rising through the pale straw-colored liquid. Golden afternoon light illuminates the drink, highlighting the fresh mint leaves that float near the top and cling to crystal-clear ice cubes. A slice of lime rests on the rim, adding a vibrant green accent that complements the mint. The condensation on the outside of the glass suggests refreshing coolness, while the effervescence of the prosecco and soda creates a lively visual texture. The drink is positioned on a light wooden table with blurred outdoor greenery in the background, evoking a perfect summer afternoon.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">40ml elderflower liqueur (St-Germain)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">90ml prosecco</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">30ml soda water</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">6-8 fresh mint leaves</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 lime wedge</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Ice cubes</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Wine glass</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Bar spoon</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Jigger for measuring</li></ul>
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Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Fill a large wine glass with ice cubes until about three-quarters full. Using quality ice is important as it melts slower, preventing your cocktail from becoming quickly diluted.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Gently slap the mint leaves between your palms to release their aromatic oils without bruising them too much. This technique enhances the mint fragrance without extracting bitter compounds.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Place the mint leaves into the glass, saving one or two leaves for garnish. Tucking some leaves against the sides of the glass creates a beautiful visual effect.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Measure and pour 40ml of elderflower liqueur over the ice. St-Germain is traditional, but any quality elderflower liqueur will work well.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Slowly pour in 90ml of chilled prosecco. Pour along the side of the glass to preserve the bubbles - pouring too quickly or directly onto the ice will cause excessive foaming and loss of effervescence.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Top with 30ml of soda water to lighten the drink and add extra sparkle. The ratio of prosecco to soda creates the perfect balance of flavor and refreshment.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Gently stir once or twice with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients without destroying the bubbles. Over-stirring will flatten your spritz.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Squeeze a lime wedge gently over the drink to add a hint of citrus brightness that complements the floral notes, then drop it into the glass or use it as a garnish on the rim.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Garnish with the reserved mint leaves and serve immediately while the drink is perfectly chilled and the bubbles are vibrant. The Hugo Spritz is best enjoyed fresh before the ice dilutes the delicate flavors.</li></ol>

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

Can I substitute elderflower cordial for liqueur in a spritz cocktail?

Yes, elderflower cordial can replace liqueur in your spritz. Use 30ml cordial and reduce soda slightly as cordial is sweeter and less alcoholic. This creates a lighter, less boozy version with similar floral notes but lower alcohol content.

What's the difference between a Hugo Spritz and an Aperol Spritz?

The key difference is the main flavouring agent – Hugo uses elderflower liqueur and mint for a delicate, floral profile, while Aperol Spritz features the bittersweet orange Aperol. Hugo is lighter, more floral and minty, whereas Aperol Spritz is more bitter-orange forward.

What's the best prosecco to use in floral spritz cocktails?

For floral spritz cocktails, choose a dry (Brut) or extra dry prosecco rather than sweet varieties. The dryness balances the sweetness of elderflower liqueur perfectly. Look for proseccos with notes of green apple and white flowers to complement the floral elements.

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