Hugo Spritz Recipe — Variations Non-Alcoholic, Fruity & Seasonal

The Hugo Spritz is a light, floral aperitif that tastes like summer in a glass. Originating in Northern Italy, this refreshing cocktail swaps the bitterness of classic spritzes for the delicate sweetness of elderflower liqueur, balanced with crisp Prosecco, bubbly soda water, and fresh mint. Perfect for brunches, garden parties, or a relaxed evening sip, the Hugo Spritz is easy to make, effortlessly elegant, and endlessly refreshing.

How to Make a Hugo Spritz

Step 1

In a wine glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with a lime wedge. This releases the oils and citrus juice.

Step 2

Fill the glass with ice cubes and pour in the elderflower liqueur.

Step 3

Add prosecco and top with sparkling water.

Step 4

Stir gently to combine. Garnish with extra mint and a lime slice, enjoy!

Ingredients

ice cubes
4 ounces chilled Prosecco
splash St. Germain liqueur
splash Chilled club soda or seltzer water
Limes
1 handful fresh mint leaves

Instructions

In a large wine glass, muddle together, 4 mint leaves with a few pieces of lime, add ice and a shot of st Germaine then fill w prosecco. Top w a spritz of soda water. I like to add fresh berries and a sprig of fresh mint to garnish.

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Ingredients For Hugo Spritz Cocktail

Prosecco

Go for well-chilled Prosecco – this drink is at its best when it’s super cold and super fizzy. Substitutes: Any dry sparkling wine (Cava), Champagne.

Elderflower liqueur

This is the signature flavor: floral, slightly sweet, and very “garden party.” Substitutes: Elderflower syrup, pear liqueur with citrus.

Soda water or sparkling water

This keeps the drink airy and refreshing instead of syrupy. Substitutes: Club soda, lemon-lime sparkling water.

Fresh mint

Mint is the “wow” aroma when you take that first sip, don’t skip it. Substitutes: Basil, citrus peel.

Lime (or lemon)

That bright citrus keeps everything tasting clean and not too sweet. Substitutes: Lemon, fresh is preferred over bottled.

Ice (lots of it!)

A Hugo Spritz should be frosty-cold from first sip to last sip.

Variations

Low-ABV / Mocktail

For a lighter, alcohol-free Hugo Spritz, replace Prosecco with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic sparkling wine, and swap elderflower liqueur for elderflower syrup. The result is a refreshing, aromatic mocktail that keeps the signature mint and lime notes, perfect for daytime or family-friendly sipping.

Summer Berry

Add muddled raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a fruity aroma and color, keeping the spritz fresh and seasonal.

Ginger

A few thin slices of fresh ginger or a splash of ginger syrup add warming spice while maintaining the drink’s floral base.

Cucumber

Thin cucumber ribbons give a crisp, cooling effect, ideal for hot summer afternoons.

Hyōgo Spritz

Swap Prosecco with chilled sake for a Japanese-inspired version. Pair with yuzu slices instead of lime for a bright, citrus-forward profile.

Citrus Infusions

Experiment with blood orange, grapefruit, or lemon peel to create local variations that complement regional flavors while keeping the spritz light and sparkling.

Serve & Pairing Guide

The Hugo Spritz isn’t just a pretty cocktail—it’s also incredibly versatile at the table. Its light, floral, and slightly sweet profile pairs beautifully with a variety of small plates and snacks.

Food Pairings

Meze Platters: Think Mediterranean-style small bites—hummus, olives, roasted vegetables, and flatbreads. The fresh mint and citrus in the Hugo Spritz cut through rich, savory flavors.

Cheese Boards: Soft cheeses like burrata, fresh mozzarella, or goat cheese pair perfectly, as do mild-aged cheeses that won’t overpower the delicate elderflower notes.

Appetizers: Light seafood, shrimp cocktail, smoked salmon, bruschetta, or prosciutto-wrapped melon make excellent companions. The drink’s effervescence refreshes the palate between bites.

Serving Tips

Serve chilled in a large wine glass with plenty of ice.

Garnish with fresh mint and a lime slice for visual appeal and aromatic lift.

Ideal as a pre-dinner aperitif or alongside brunch spreads.

FAQs

Is Hugo Spritz sweeter than Aperol Spritz?

Yes, Hugo Spritz is generally sweeter than Aperol Spritz. It uses elderflower syrup, which adds floral sweetness, while Aperol Spritz has a more bitter orange flavor.

Can you make a Hugo Spritz without alcohol?

Yes. Replace Prosecco with sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine while keeping elderflower syrup, soda, and mint.

What glass is best for a Spritz?

A large wine glass or balloon glass is ideal, allowing space for ice, garnishes, and carbonation.

What ingredients are in a Hugo Spritz?

Prosecco, elderflower syrup, soda water, fresh mint, and citrus slices served over ice.

How is Hugo Spritz different from Aperol Spritz?

Hugo Spritz is lighter and sweeter with elderflower and mint, while Aperol Spritz has a bitter orange flavor.