Move Over Aperol, The Hugo Is The Season's Hottest Spritz

May 09, 2026 | By Benjamin Smith
Move Over Aperol, The Hugo Is The Season's Hottest Spritz

Everything You Need to Know About the Hugo Spritz

Hailing from the picturesque Tyrolean region of Northern Italy, the Hugo is a beloved European spritz that has become a viral sensation this summer. Less bitter and more floral than its cousin, the Aperol Spritz, it was created in 2005 as a lighter alternative. This elegant cocktail combines the delicate elderflower notes of St-Germain or elderflower syrup with the crisp fizz of Prosecco and a hint of fresh mint and lime, making it a perfect option for those seeking a low-alcohol cocktail.

Hugo Spritz

Prep Time3 min
Yield1 Cocktail
Base SpiritProsecco

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Elderflower Liqueur or Elderflower Syrup
  • 4 oz Chilled Prosecco (or other Sparkling White Wine)
  • 1 oz Soda Water
  • 2-3 Fresh Mint Leaves
  • Lime Wheel, for garnish
Move Over Aperol, The Hugo Is The Season's Hottest Spritz

Instructions

  1. Fill a large wine glass with ice.
  2. Add the elderflower liqueur, then the Prosecco.
  3. Top with soda water.
  4. Gently stir to combine the ingredients.
  5. Garnish with a lime wheel and a few fresh mint leaves, gently clapping the mint between your palms before adding to release its aroma.
Pro Tip
The key to a great Hugo Spritz is the quality of the Prosecco—a dry, crisp Prosecco works best to balance the sweetness of the elderflower liqueur. Using fresh mint is essential for the cocktail's refreshing, aromatic quality.

Hugo Spritz Riff

For a fruit-forward variation, muddle a few fresh raspberries or thin slices of peach in the bottom of the glass before adding ice. For a non-alcoholic option, use a non-alcoholic sparkling wine and elderflower syrup instead of the liqueur.

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