Hugo Cocktail Spritz Cocktail Recipe

I love a good spritz, but honestly, sometimes I’m just not in the mood for that heavy Aperol or the bite of Campari. That’s when the Hugo Cocktail Spritz really shines.

This cocktail brings together elderflower, sparkling wine, and soda water for something crisp, floral, and—let’s be real—super easy to whip up at home.

The first time I tried it, I didn’t expect it to be so balanced. There’s this gentle sweetness from the elderflower, and the bubbles just make everything pop.

Fresh mint and a bit of lime keep things bright and lively. It’s one of those drinks you can throw together quickly, perfect for a lazy afternoon or when friends just drop by.

If you’re into spritzes but want something a bit less bitter, I’d say give this recipe a shot. The steps are as easy as it gets, and you probably have most of the ingredients already—or at least they’re easy to find.

Hugo Cocktail Spritz Cocktail Recipe

What I really like about the Hugo Spritz is how it balances those light bubbles with the fresh herbs and floral notes. It’s refreshing, and honestly, it’s not hard to make at all.

The mix of prosecco, elderflower liqueur, and mint just works. You can totally make it at home, no fancy skills needed.

Equipment

• Large wine glass – I go for a stemmed glass because it keeps the drink cold and gives space for ice and all the garnishes.
• Bar spoon – Makes it easier to stir everything gently, so you don’t lose the fizz.
• Jigger or measuring tool – Helps me get the right amount of prosecco, elderflower liqueur, and soda water.
• Citrus knife – Needed for cutting lime wedges or slices.
• Cutting board – Just a little one for prepping the lime and mint.
• Ice scoop or tongs – I use these so I’m not grabbing ice with my hands.
• Straw (optional) – Sometimes I’ll add a straw, just depends on my mood.

I like to keep things simple—no shaking or straining here. Just a good glass and plenty of ice really make a difference.

Ingredients

• 3 oz prosecco or sparkling wine
• 2 oz St‑Germain elderflower liqueur (or elderflower syrup if you want to go lighter on alcohol)
• 1 oz club soda
• Fresh mint leaves (about 6–8, plus a few extra for garnish)
• 1 lime wedge or slice
• Ice cubes

Sometimes I tweak the proportions, depending on how sweet or strong I want it. Prosecco gives it that crisp, classic Italian vibe, but honestly, any sparkling wine works if that’s what’s in the fridge.

The mint and lime really help balance out the floral sweetness.

Instructions

• Fill a large wine glass with as much ice as you like.
• Add the fresh mint leaves and press them gently with a spoon—just enough to release some aroma.
• Pour in the St‑Germain elderflower liqueur.
• Top it off with chilled prosecco or sparkling wine.
• Add a splash of club soda for a bit of fizz.
• Stir gently with a bar spoon so you don’t lose those bubbles.
• Garnish with a lime wedge or slice and an extra sprig of mint.

Serve it right away, while it’s still cold and sparkling. That’s when it’s best.

Notes

I find that using super cold prosecco makes the spritz taste brighter, almost zippy. If I’m out of St‑Germain, I’ll just use elderflower syrup and splash in a bit more soda water.

The Hugo Spritz is definitely lighter than your typical Italian spritz with Aperol, since it swaps out the bitter orange for floral liqueur.

Mint gives it a fresh twist, and the lime stops it from getting too sweet.

If you want to cut down on alcohol, just swap the prosecco for sparkling water or use less liqueur. It stays refreshing but won’t knock you over.

Tasting Notes

When I take my first sip of the Hugo, it just feels so light and crisp. Those bubbles from the sparkling wine really make it lively, and the elderflower brings in this gentle sweetness that doesn’t try too hard.

I get a hit of fresh mint right away, which gives the drink a cool edge I wasn’t expecting. The lime steps in and balances out the sweetness with a bit of tartness—honestly, it’s pretty perfect for a warm day.

The Hugo takes me back to an aperitivo I once had in South Tyrol, up in northern Italy. There’s something about it that just screams summer cocktail, like it’s made for lounging outside in the sun.

If I compare it to other spritz variations, the Hugo comes off softer and definitely less bitter. It doesn’t have that sharp bite you get from an Aperol Spritz, so if I’m in the mood for something refreshing without strong flavors, this is probably what I’d reach for.

The aroma’s just as important as the taste, honestly. That mix of elderflower, mint, and citrus gives off this floral, fresh scent that kind of makes me want to slow down and savor it.

This drink feels so tied to its Italian roots, especially up north where lighter, herbal flavors are just the norm. It’s simple, balanced, and honestly, it’s meant to refresh—not overwhelm.