Picture yourself enjoying a cool beverage on a sunny summer afternoon. Feel the cool breeze and the sweetness of elderflower liqueur. The hugo spritz recipe combines Prosecco, St. Germain, and sparkling water. It’s a hit in Italy, especially in the summer, for its light and refreshing taste.

Making this drink takes only 5 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious beverage to share with friends and family. It’s a great choice for a light, refreshing cocktail. Enjoy it on its own or with your favorite appetizers.
Table of Contents
What is a Hugo Spritz
This refreshing cocktail has become popular lately. It’s made with ingredients like prosecco, elderflower liqueur, and soda water. You might be wondering about its origins, which started in 2005 when Roland Gruber, a bartender, created it in Naturno, Italy.
This drink usually has 4 ounces of prosecco, 1/2 ounce of St-Germain elderflower liqueur, and 1 ounce of soda water. This blend makes it perfect for warm weather. Unlike other Italian spritzes, it doesn’t have bitter liqueurs, making it a light and floral choice.
Origins of the Hugo Spritz
was first introduced in Italy and soon became popular in Austria and Germany too. Its unique taste and lower alcohol content helped it gain fans quickly.
Key Characteristics
The Hugo Spritz is known for its elderflower liqueur, which adds a floral touch. The usual recipe is 4 parts prosecco, 1 part St-Germain, and 1 part soda water. This makes it a simple and refreshing cocktail to make.
Popularity Growth
Since its creation, the Hugo Spritz has become a favorite in bars and restaurants. Its refreshing taste and unique flavor make it perfect for any event. Plus, its hugo spritz ingredients are easy to find, so you can make it at home too.
Hugo Spritz Ingredients
To make a Hugo Spritz, you will need the following ingredients:
- Prosecco: approximately 6 ounces
- Elderflower liqueur: 1 ounce
- Seltzer or sparkling water: 2 ounces
- Lime: 3 slices (for garnish)
- Fresh mint leaves: 6 leaves (for garnish)
- Ice: 4 cubes

These hugo spritz ingredients are simple and easily accessible. This makes the Hugo Spritz a great choice for those looking to try a new cocktail at home. The mix of Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, and seltzer or sparkling water offers a refreshing and unique taste.
When picking hugo spritz ingredients, choose high-quality Prosecco and elderflower liqueur for the best taste. You can also try different sparkling waters or seltzers to find your favorite.
Choosing the Right Prosecco for Your Drink
Choosing the right Prosecco is key to a great recipe. The sweetness level of Prosecco can change a lot, from Brut to Extra Dry and Dry. A Dry Prosecco is best for a traditional Hugo Spritz, with 17 to 32 grams of sugar per liter. This balance of sweetness and acidity is perfect.
When picking a Prosecco, think about a few things:
- Dry vs Extra Dry: Dry Prosecco has more sugar, which changes the taste of the cocktail.
- Temperature: Keep your Prosecco cold. This keeps the flavors and aromas fresh.
- Recommended Brands: Look for brands like La Marca, Mionetto, and Santa Margherita. They offer different sweetness levels.
Choosing the right Prosecco makes your Hugo Spritz refreshing and flavorful. It’s great for any event. Whether you’re experienced or new to cocktails, the quality of your ingredients, like the Prosecco, is crucial.
Prosecco Type | Residual Sugar Content |
---|---|
Brut Prosecco | up to 12 grams per liter |
Extra Dry Prosecco | 12 to 17 grams per liter |
Dry Prosecco | 17 to 32 grams per liter |

The Role of Elderflower
The Hugo Spritz is a refreshing cocktail that has gained popularity in recent years. Elderflower liqueur is a key ingredient, giving it a distinct floral flavor. Using high-quality elderflower liqueur is essential for the best flavor.
The addition of St-Germain elderflower liqueur to the cocktail was a game-changer. It significantly enhanced the cocktail’s flavor profile. The recommended ratio of ingredients is 1 oz elderflower syrup or liqueur, 4 oz chilled Prosecco, and 2 oz chilled club soda. This shows the importance of elderflower in the drink.
To make a great Hugo Spritz, use 15ml (0.5oz) of elderflower cordial or liqueur per cocktail. Some tips include using a large wine glass or a St-Germain Hugo Spritz highball glass for optimal serving. Garnish with a single lime wedge and mint sprig. The elderflower liqueur is crucial, making the cocktail refreshing and enjoyable.
Remember, the quality of the elderflower liqueur greatly affects the flavor of the cocktail. Choose a high-quality liqueur to enjoy the unique taste of the cocktail. Its light and refreshing flavor makes it perfect for any occasion, with elderflower liqueur being a key part of its charm.
Complete Hugo Spritz Recipe Step by Step
To make the cocktail, you need to know the basic ingredients and their amounts. The classic mix is 3:2:1 of Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, and soda water. For one drink, use 3 oz of Prosecco, 2 oz of elderflower liqueur, and 1 oz of soda water.
Preparation Time and Servings
Making Cocktail takes about 3 minutes. It’s perfect for parties. To serve more, just multiply the ingredients. For a pitcher, you’ll need 1 bottle of Prosecco, 2 cups of elderflower liqueur, and 1 cup of soda water.
Mixing Instructions
To prepare the drink, begin by filling a wine glass with ice. Add the Prosecco, then the elderflower liqueur. Finish with soda water. Stir gently to mix well. You can adjust the soda water to your liking, for more fizz.
Garnishing Tips
Top your cocktail with a sprig of fresh mint and a lime slice. For a pitcher, you’ll need 8-12 lime slices and several sprigs of fresh mint. This adds color and enhances the flavors and aromas.
Ingredient | Single Serving | Pitcher |
---|---|---|
Prosecco | 3 oz | 1 bottle (750 ml) |
Elderflower Liqueur | 2 oz | 2 cups |
Soda Water | 1 oz | 1 cup |
Follow these steps to make a perfect hugo that will wow your guests. Use fresh ingredients and adjust the amounts to your liking. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing cocktail!
Essential Tools and Glassware
To fully enjoy the drink, you need the right tools and glassware. A large wine glass is best for serving . It lets the drink look great and taste even better.
For making a Hugo Spritz, you’ll need a jigger, a muddler, and a wine opener. A large wine glass, at least 12 ounces, is perfect. It holds all the ingredients like Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, and soda water without spilling.
Here are some tips for choosing the right glassware for your drink:
- Look for a glass with a wide bowl and a narrow rim, as this will help to preserve the aromas of the drink.
- Choose a glass that is made from high-quality glass, as this will help to prevent the glass from becoming cloudy or tainted.
- Consider using a glass with a decorative rim or design, as this can add to the visual appeal of the drink.
Using the right tools and glassware makes a Hugo Spritz not just tasty but also beautiful. Whether it’s for a party or a quiet night, the right glassware enhances the experience. So, try it out and see how a well-made Hugo Spritz can make your next event or evening special.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a hugo spritz, it’s key to watch out for common mistakes. These can mess up the drink’s taste and quality. One big thing to remember is the right mix of ingredients. Too much or too little of anything can ruin the balance.
It’s also important to avoid ice issues. Too much ice can water down the flavors, while too little can make it warm. Aim for a few ice cubes to keep it cool without diluting it.
Getting the ingredient ratios right is another common mistake. The classic hugo spritz recipe has a specific mix of prosecco, elderflower syrup, and soda water. If you use too much or too little of anything, it can change the flavor and balance.
Serving the hugo spritz at the wrong temperature is a mistake too. It should be served cold, with chilled prosecco and other ingredients. If it’s too warm, it loses its refreshing quality, making it less fun to drink.
Seasonal Variations
Exploring Hugo Spritz reveals it can change with the seasons. Simple tweaks to the Hugo Spritz recipe create unique flavors for any time. This makes it perfect for any season.
Changing the Prosecco is a key way to adapt the Hugo Spritz recipe. For summer, try a dry Prosecco. For winter, a sweeter one works better. Adding fruits like strawberries or cranberries adds a fresh twist.
Here are some seasonal ideas:
- Summer: Add fresh strawberries or peaches for a sweet twist.
- Winter: Use sweeter Prosecco and add cranberries or orange slices for a festive touch.
- Spring: Add fresh mint leaves or lemon slices for a bright flavor.
- Autumn: Use dry Prosecco and add apple slices or cinnamon sticks for a warm flavor.
These ideas are just a starting point. Feel free to mix and match to create your own unique Hugo Spritz recipes for each season.
Season | Prosecco Type | Added Ingredients |
---|---|---|
Summer | Dry Prosecco | Fresh strawberries or peaches |
Winter | Sweet Prosecco | Cranberries or orange slices |
Spring | Dry Prosecco | Fresh mint leaves or lemon slices |
Autumn | Dry Prosecco | Apple slices or cinnamon sticks |
Perfect Food Pairings
Pairing food with Hugo Spritz opens up a world of possibilities. Its refreshing and slightly sweet taste goes well with many dishes. You can enjoy it with appetizers, main courses, or even desserts.
To pair food with Hugo Spritz, look for dishes that match its crisp and sweet flavor. Try pairing it with prosciutto-wrapped cantaloupe melon for a classic taste. You can also pair it with fruit-forward foods like salads or grilled meats.
Appetizer Suggestions
- Prosciutto-wrapped cantaloupe melon
- Grilled shrimp with lemon and herbs
- Bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and basil
Main Course Matches
For main courses, Hugo Spritz pairs well with seafood, poultry, or pork. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled salmon with lemon and herbs
- Chicken salad with mixed greens and fruit
- Pork chops with apple and onion compote
When pairing food with Hugo Spritz, aim for dishes that enhance its refreshing and sweet taste. With a bit of experimentation, you’ll find the perfect pairings for your Hugo Spritz.
Food Pairing | Description |
---|---|
Prosciutto-wrapped cantaloupe melon | A classic combination that is both refreshing and flavorful |
Grilled shrimp with lemon and herbs | A light and flavorful dish that pairs well with Hugo Spritz |
Bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and basil | A simple yet flavorful dish that complements the crisp profile |
Making This Drink for a Crowd
Making for many people is easy. Just multiply the ingredients for the number of servings you want. A single serving has 1 ½ oz Prosecco, 1 oz Elderflower syrup or St. Germaine, and ½ oz Sparkling water.
To make a big batch for a party, you’ll need:
- 2 cups of elderflower liqueur (e.g., St-Germain)
- 1 bottle of prosecco (750 ml)
- 1 cup of sparkling water or club soda
Follow these steps and use the right ingredients. You’ll learn how to make a hugo spritz for a crowd. Then, you can enjoy it with your friends and family.
Non-Alcoholic Alternative
If you don’t drink alcohol, you can still enjoy a Hugo Spritz. Just swap the Prosecco with sparkling juice. This version is just as refreshing and simple to make as the original hugo spritz recipe.
To make this mocktail, you’ll need a few things. You’ll need non-alcoholic prosecco, elderflower cordial, and club soda.
Making this mocktail takes about 5 minutes. It serves one person and has about 85 calories. Here’s what you need:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Non-alcoholic prosecco | 750 ml |
Elderflower cordial | 3 oz |
Club soda | 1 1/2 cups (12 oz) |
Mint sprigs | 6 |
Apple | 1 |

Here’s what the mocktail’s nutrition looks like:
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 0.2g
- Fat: 0.1g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Potassium: 34mg
This non-alcoholic cocktails is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for those who love the Hugo Spritz but don’t drink alcohol.
Health Benefits and Caloric Content
Looking at the health benefits and calories in this recipe is key. It’s made with Prosecco, elderflower syrup, and soda water. These ingredients add up to its calorie count. With about 100 calories from Prosecco, a hugo spritz has fewer calories than many cocktails.
is a healthier choice, thanks to the elderflower syrup’s sweetness. The Prosecco, with 7 calories per gram of alcohol, is also a lower-calorie option. Here’s a quick look at a hugo spritz’s calorie breakdown:
Ingredient | Calorie Content |
---|---|
Prosecco (60ml) | 40 calories |
Elderflower syrup (20ml) | 30 calories |
Soda water | 0 calories |
Total | 70 calories |
Nutritional Information
the cocktails is low in calories, but it’s good to know about its nutrients. The elderflower syrup adds a bit of sugar, but it’s less than in other sweet drinks. Plus, Prosecco has antioxidants that are good for the heart.
Dietary Considerations
If you’re counting calories or following a diet, a hugo spritz is a good pick. It’s low in calories and has little added sugar. But, remember to drink it in moderation. Too much alcohol can harm your health.
Storage and Shelf Life of Ingredients
To keep your Hugo Spritz tasting great, it’s key to store the ingredients right. The hugo spritz ingredients, like elderflower liqueur and Prosecco, don’t last forever. Elderflower syrup can stay good for months in a cool, dark spot. But once you open it, use it within 1-2 months for the best taste.
Prosecco, however, should be drunk soon after you open it. It can last a few days with a sparkling wine stopper. But for the best taste, drink it within a week. Here are some tips for keeping your ingredients fresh:
- Store Prosecco in a cool, dry place before opening.
- Keep elderflower syrup in a cool, dark place, and refrigerate after opening.
- Store fresh mint in a glass of water in the fridge or wrap it in a damp paper towel.
- Keep sparkling water in a cool, dry place, and consume it within a few days of opening.
By following these storage tips, your hugo spritz ingredients will stay fresh and tasty. This means you’ll always have a delicious Hugo Spritz. Always check the expiration dates and store the ingredients to keep their flavor and quality.
Elevate Your Home Bartending
You’ve learned how to make a refreshing Hugo Spritz at home. You know how to pick the right prosecco and get the measurements just right. Now, you’re on your way to becoming a pro at home bartending.
The secret to a great Hugo Spritz is in the details. Use chilled glassware, add fragrant mint leaves, and find the perfect mix of bubbly and floral. These small things make a big difference.
As you keep trying new things with your drink, you’ll wow your friends and family. You’ll also get better at making cocktails. Let the Hugo Spritz inspire you to try more European drinks. Cheers to your new skills in home mixology!