The Hugo Spritz Cocktail Recipe

I love making awesome cocktails, and the Hugo Spritz is one of my all-time favorites. This drink is delightful and effervescent, combining the flowery sweetness of elderflower syrup with the bubbling Prosecco and a splash of club soda.

I traditionally muddle fresh mint leaves, which packs the drink with a refreshing minty aroma. The drink is packed with bright flavor but is a lot lighter than most spritzes, so I consider it kind of a “guilt-free” cocktail, if there is such a thing.

Once I mix it up, I finish it with ice, which is my favorite part—the more ice, the better. I garnish it with a lime wedge and a sprig of mint because not only does it look amazing, but it also intensifies the minty aroma.

Ingredients

Fresh Mint Leaves:
Impart a renewing scent and a barely minty flavor, ideal for a refreshing effect.

Elderflower Syrup:
Contributes floral sweetness and subtle aromas, augmenting the drink’s intricate nature.

Prosecco:
Bringing in the bubbly, bright character with a touch of sweetness and effervescence.

Soda Water:
Dissolving and harmonizing sweetness, it adds an effervescent texture that brings a thirst-quenching dimension.

Lime Wedge:
Delivers a burst of tangy freshness and lively color with a citrusy zest.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 fresh mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon elderflower syrup
• 3 ounces Prosecco
• 1 ounce soda water (or club soda)
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedge or slice for garnish
• Additional mint sprig for garnish

Instructions

1. Start by taking 4 fresh mint leaves and lightly muddling them in a glass to bring out their flavor and scent.

2. Combine the muddled mint with 1 tablespoon of elderflower syrup.

3. Add 3 ounces of Prosecco to the glass, letting it blend with the mint and elderflower syrup.

4. To the glass, add 1 ounce of soda water (or club soda) to create a refreshing fizz.

5. Fill the glass with ice cubes, and gently stir to combine all the ingredients.

6. Infuse the drink with fresh citrus notes by squeezing a fresh lime wedge over it and then dropping it into the glass for good measure.

7. Gently stir the cocktail again to guarantee that all flavors are well integrated.

8. Test the sweetness and mintiness, and adjust if necessary by adding syrup or mint.

9. Add a mint sprig to the cocktail as a garnish for an aromatic touch.

10. Enjoy your revitalizing Hugo Spritz! Serve it up right away, and guzzle it down if you like.

Equipment Needed

1. Muddler
2. Glass (for serving)
3. Tablespoon (for measuring)
4. Ounce measure (optional, for measuring liquids)
5. Stirrer or spoon
6. Citrus squeezer or juicer (optional)
7. Knife (for cutting lime)
8. Cutting board (for slicing lime)

FAQ

• What is elderflower syrup, and where can I find it?A sweet concentrate made from the flowers of the elderberry plant, elderflower syrup is often located in the juice or syrup sections of the local supermarket or specialty store.
• Can I substitute Prosecco with another sparkling wine?Certainly, feel free to substitute it with any sparkling wine, such as Champagne or Cava, but Prosecco is suggested for the most authentic flavor.
• Can I make this cocktail in advance?The sparkling wine is best when consumed shortly after it is made. Make sure that it is nice and cold before serving. Pour into Champagne flutes to maintain the bubbles. And enjoy!
• What alternative garnishes can I use if mint is unavailable?To create a different twist, use a slice of cucumber or a sprig of rosemary.
• What type of glass is best for serving a Hugo Spritz?This cocktail is best served in a wine glass or a large balloon glass.
• Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Hugo Spritz?Indeed, substituting Prosecco with sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine is an option.

Substitutions and Variations

Mint leaves: Use basil or lemon balm leaves in place of mint for a different herbal note.
Elderflower syrup: For a stronger flavor, use the St-Germain elderflower liqueur. For a unique twist, try using floral syrup, like rose or lavender.
Prosecco: Substitute another dry sparkling wine or champagne for a comparable bubbly effect.
Soda water: For a slightly bitter edge, use tonic water; for a gentler flavor, use sparkling mineral water.
Lime wedge: Substitute with a lemon wedge or a slice of cucumber for a refreshing variation.