Hugo Spritz Recipe: The Perfect Summer Cocktail

Are you looking for a refreshing cocktail to enjoy on those hot summer days? Look no further than the Hugo Spritz Recipe! This delightful, effervescent cocktail has been taking the world by storm, even being dubbed “The Drink of Summer” on social media platforms like TikTok. With its perfect balance of floral elderflower, aromatic mint, and crisp Prosecco, the Hugo Spritz offers a lighter, more refreshing alternative to the more commonly known Aperol Spritz.

Originally created in Northern Italy, this modern classic has quickly spread across Europe and is now gaining tremendous popularity in the United States. What makes the Hugo Spritz so appealing is its versatility and approachability – it’s sophisticated enough for a special occasion yet simple enough to enjoy on a casual evening on the patio.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the Hugo Spritz Recipe – from its fascinating history and precise ingredients to step-by-step preparation instructions and creative variations. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a curious beginner, you’ll find valuable insights to help you craft the perfect Hugo Spritz Recipe that will impress your friends and family at your next gathering.

Hugo Spritz Recipe

What is a Hugo Spritz?

The Hugo Spritz Recipe is a modern classic cocktail that originated in the stunning South Tyrol region of northern Italy. At its core, it’s a refreshing blend of elderflower liqueur (typically St-Germain), Prosecco, club soda, fresh mint leaves, and a slice of lime or lemon. The result is a light, floral, and effervescent cocktail that’s perfect for warm weather enjoyment.

What sets the Hugo Spritz Recipe apart from other spritz cocktails is its distinctively floral and aromatic profile. Unlike the Aperol Spritz, which features a bitter orange liqueur giving it that characteristic orange-red hue and slightly bitter taste, the Hugo Spritz showcases the delicate, sweet notes of elderflower balanced by the brightness of mint and citrus.

The Hugo Spritz follows the traditional spritz formula of combining a liqueur with sparkling wine and soda water, but its flavor profile is entirely unique. The elderflower provides a subtle sweetness with notes of pear, lychee, and grapefruit, while the mint adds a refreshing aromatic quality that makes this cocktail particularly invigorating on hot days.

Typically served in a wine glass over ice and garnished with fresh mint and a citrus wheel, the Hugo Spritz is visually appealing with its pale golden color and vibrant green mint leaves. It’s a cocktail that not only tastes wonderful but also looks elegant and inviting.

Comparing the Hugo Spritz to Other Popular Spritz Cocktails

While the Hugo Spritz has been gaining popularity, it’s worth understanding how it compares to other members of the spritz family:

• Aperol Spritz: Features Aperol (a bitter orange aperitif), Prosecco, and soda water. It has a distinctive orange-red color and a slightly bitter, citrusy taste.
• Campari Spritz: Similar to the Aperol Spritz but uses Campari instead, resulting in a deeper red color and a more pronounced bitter flavor.
• Limoncello Spritz: Uses limoncello (a sweet lemon liqueur), Prosecco, and soda water, creating a bright yellow cocktail with a sweet, lemony taste.
• Spritz Veneziano: The original Venetian spritz, traditionally made with white wine, soda water, and a bitter liqueur like Select or Aperol.
• **Black Manhattan **: While not technically a spritz, this sophisticated cocktail offers a rich, robust alternative with whiskey and amaro creating deep, complex flavors.
• **Carajillo **: For those who enjoy coffee-infused cocktails, the Carajillo provides a completely different experience with its rich coffee and Licor 43 combination.

The Hugo Spritz stands out with its floral, aromatic profile that’s less bitter than the Aperol or Campari versions, making it more approachable for those who prefer lighter, sweeter cocktails.

The History of the Hugo Spritz

Unlike many classic cocktails with origins dating back centuries, the Hugo Spritz has a relatively recent and well-documented history. This modern classic was created in 2005 by bartender Roland Gruber in the small town of Naturno (Naturns in German), located in South Tyrol, a northern Italian province along the Italian-Austrian border.

Interestingly, the cocktail wasn’t always known as the “Hugo.” According to cocktail historians, Gruber initially named his creation the “Otto Spritz,” but later changed it to “Hugo” simply because he thought it sounded better. The name stuck, and the Hugo Spritz was born.

The original recipe also differed slightly from what we know today. Gruber’s first version used lemon balm syrup rather than elderflower. However, as elderflower became more readily available and offered a more distinctive flavor profile, it quickly replaced the lemon balm to become the signature ingredient we associate with the Hugo Spritz today.

Gruber’s inspiration came from the stunning natural surroundings of South Tyrol, particularly the wild elderflower trees growing abundantly in the valleys of the Dolomite Mountain range. He set out to craft a light, refreshing alternative to the classic Aperol Spritz, which was already popular throughout Italy.

The timing of the Hugo Spritz’s creation coincided with a growing interest in lighter, more refreshing cocktails, especially during the warm summer months. Word of this delightful new cocktail spread quickly throughout Northern Italy and into neighboring Austria and Germany. By the 2010s, the Hugo Spritz had become a staple in bars across Europe.

More recently, with the global rise of spritz culture and the particular popularity of the Aperol Spritz in the United States, the Hugo Spritz has found its way onto cocktail menus worldwide. Social media has played a significant role in its recent surge in popularity, with the hashtag #HugoSpritz generating millions of views on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where it’s often showcased as “the drink of summer.”

The Hugo Spritz exemplifies how a well-crafted cocktail with quality ingredients can quickly become a modern classic, even without centuries of history behind it.

Ingredients Breakdown

The beauty of the Hugo Spritz lies in its simplicity – just a few high-quality ingredients combine to create something truly special. Let’s break down each component and understand its role in this refreshing cocktail:

Elderflower Liqueur

The star of the Hugo Spritz is undoubtedly the elderflower liqueur, which provides the cocktail’s distinctive floral character. St-Germain is the most widely recognized brand and is often referred to as “bartender’s gold” for its versatility and unique flavor profile.

Elderflower liqueur is made from the small white flowers of the elderberry plant (Sambucus nigra), which typically bloom for just a few weeks in late spring. The flowers are handpicked and then macerated to extract their delicate flavor before being blended with a spirit base, water, and sugar.

The flavor of elderflower liqueur is complex yet approachable – subtly sweet with notes of pear, lychee, grapefruit, and honey, along with a gentle floral quality that isn’t overwhelming. It typically has an alcohol content of around 20% ABV, making it less potent than many other liqueurs.

If St-Germain isn’t available, other elderflower liqueur brands like Bols Elderflower, The Bitter Truth Elderflower Liqueur, or St. Elder can be substituted. In some regions, you might also find elderflower cordial or syrup, which is a non-alcoholic alternative that can be used in a modified recipe.

Prosecco

Prosecco provides the backbone of the Hugo Spritz, contributing both alcohol content and effervescence. This Italian sparkling wine comes from the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions of Italy and is made primarily from Glera grapes using the Charmat method, where the secondary fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks rather than in the bottle.

For a Hugo Spritz, you’ll want to use a dry (Brut) or extra-dry Prosecco rather than a sweet one, as the elderflower liqueur already adds sweetness to the cocktail. The crisp acidity and light, fruity notes of apple, pear, and white peach in Prosecco complement the floral elderflower beautifully.

While Prosecco is traditional, you can substitute other sparkling wines like Cava from Spain or even Champagne for a more luxurious version. Just be aware that each will bring its own character to the final drink.

Sparkling Water/Club Soda

A splash of sparkling water or club soda adds dilution and additional effervescence to the Hugo Spritz. This component helps to lighten the cocktail and make it more refreshing, especially on hot days.

Plain sparkling mineral water works perfectly, though club soda can also be used. The key is to use a product with fine, persistent bubbles that will maintain the cocktail’s fizzy character.

Fresh Mint

Fresh mint is essential to the Hugo Spritz, providing an aromatic quality that elevates the entire drink. The mint works in harmony with the elderflower, adding a cooling sensation and bright, herbaceous notes that make the cocktail especially refreshing.

When selecting mint for your Hugo Spritz, look for vibrant green leaves without any browning or wilting. Spearmint is the most common variety used, but you can experiment with other types like peppermint or even chocolate mint for a unique twist.

The mint is typically muddled gently to release its essential oils before the other ingredients are added, and a sprig is used as garnish to enhance the aromatic experience with each sip.

Citrus

A slice of lime or lemon adds a crucial acidic element that balances the sweetness of the elderflower liqueur. The citrus brightens the cocktail and contributes a fresh, zesty quality that complements both the elderflower and mint.

While both lime and lemon work well, lime tends to have a slightly more pronounced flavor that can stand up to the other ingredients. Some recipes call for a gentle squeeze of juice into the cocktail before adding the slice as a garnish.

Ice

Quality ice is often overlooked but is crucial for a properly made Hugo Spritz. Large, clear ice cubes are ideal as they melt more slowly, preventing the cocktail from becoming watered down too quickly.

The ice not only chills the drink but also helps to integrate the flavors as the cocktail sits in the glass. For the best experience, always use fresh ice made from filtered water.

Equipment Needed

Crafting the perfect Hugo Spritz doesn’t require elaborate bar equipment, but a few key items will help you achieve professional results:

Glassware

The traditional vessel for a Hugo Spritz is a large wine glass, specifically a white wine glass with a generous bowl. This shape allows the aromatic qualities of the mint and elderflower to be appreciated fully. A stemmed glass also prevents the warmth from your hand from heating the cocktail too quickly.

If you don’t have wine glasses available, any large stemmed glass will work, including balloon glasses or even a large coupe. In a pinch, a highball glass can be used, though it won’t showcase the aromas as effectively.

Bar Tools

While the Hugo Spritz is relatively simple to prepare, a few basic bar tools will make the process easier:

• Muddler: For gently crushing the mint leaves to release their essential oils
• Bar Spoon: For stirring the cocktail to combine ingredients without losing carbonation
• Jigger or Measuring Cup: For accurately measuring the elderflower liqueur
• Knife and Cutting Board: For preparing citrus garnishes

Ice Tools

If possible, use large ice cubes or spheres for slower dilution. An ice tray that produces larger cubes is a worthwhile investment for all cocktails, including the Hugo Spritz. If you’re serving multiple drinks, an ice bucket will keep your supply fresh and ready.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Creating the perfect Hugo Spritz is simple once you understand the technique. Follow these detailed steps for cocktail success:

Ingredients (for one serving):

• 1 oz (30 ml) St-Germain elderflower liqueur
• 4 oz (120 ml) chilled Prosecco
• 1 oz (30 ml) club soda or sparkling water
• 5-10 fresh mint leaves, plus a sprig for garnish
• 1 slice of lime or lemon
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Glass: Select a large wine glass and fill it about halfway with ice cubes. Quality ice is important here – large, clear cubes are ideal as they melt more slowly.
2. Add the Mint: Place 5-10 fresh mint leaves in the bottom of the glass on top of the ice. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently press the mint leaves against the ice. The goal is to release the aromatic oils without shredding the leaves. Be gentle – over-muddling will release bitter compounds and result in small pieces of mint floating in the drink.
3. Add the Elderflower Liqueur: Measure and pour 1 oz of St-Germain elderflower liqueur over the muddled mint and ice. The liqueur will begin to pick up the mint flavor immediately.
4. Add the Prosecco: Slowly pour 4 oz of chilled Prosecco into the glass. Pour gently down the side of the glass to preserve as much carbonation as possible.
5. Add the Sparkling Water: Top with 1 oz of club soda or sparkling water, again pouring gently.
6. Stir Gently: Using a bar spoon, give the cocktail a gentle stir to combine the ingredients. Stir from the bottom up with a smooth, fluid motion to maintain carbonation. About 3-4 rotations should be sufficient.
7. Garnish: Take a fresh sprig of mint and gently clap it between your palms once to release the aromatic oils. Place the mint sprig in the glass so that it extends above the rim, creating an aromatic garnish. Add a slice of lime or lemon to the rim of the glass or float it in the cocktail.
8. Serve Immediately: The Hugo Spritz is best enjoyed right away while it’s cold and the carbonation is at its peak.

Tips for Perfect Execution:

• Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients, especially the Prosecco and sparkling water, are well-chilled before mixing.
• Bubbles are Key: Handle carbonated ingredients gently to preserve their effervescence.
• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh mint and citrus for the best flavor.
• Balance is Essential: The ratio of ingredients can be adjusted slightly to taste, but maintain the balance between the elderflower, Prosecco, and sparkling water.
• Mint Technique: When clapping the mint garnish between your hands, you’re releasing aromatic oils that enhance the drinking experience through smell.

Hugo Spritz Variations

While the classic Hugo Spritz is perfect as is, part of the joy of cocktail culture is experimentation. Here are several delicious variations to try:

Hugo Spritz with Gin

For those who prefer a stronger cocktail, adding a splash of gin creates a more complex and potent version:

• 0.5 oz gin (a floral gin like Hendrick’s works particularly well)
• 0.5 oz St-Germain elderflower liqueur
• 3 oz Prosecco
• 1 oz sparkling water
• Fresh mint leaves
• Slice of lime
• Ice

Prepare as you would a classic Hugo Spritz, adding the gin along with the elderflower liqueur.

Hugo Royale

For a more luxurious version, substitute Champagne for Prosecco:

• 1 oz St-Germain elderflower liqueur
• 4 oz chilled Champagne
• Fresh mint leaves
• Slice of lemon
• Ice

Omit the sparkling water in this version to let the Champagne shine.

Berry Hugo

Add a fruity dimension by incorporating fresh berries:

• 1 oz St-Germain elderflower liqueur
• 4 oz Prosecco
• 1 oz sparkling water
• Fresh mint leaves
• 3-4 fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries work well)
• Slice of lime
• Ice

Muddle the berries gently with the mint before adding the remaining ingredients.

Cucumber Hugo

The refreshing quality of cucumber pairs beautifully with the elderflower and mint:

• 1 oz St-Germain elderflower liqueur
• 4 oz Prosecco
• 1 oz sparkling water
• Fresh mint leaves
• 2-3 thin cucumber slices, plus one for garnish
• Ice

Muddle the cucumber slices with the mint before adding the other ingredients.

Non-Alcoholic Hugo Spritz (Hugo Mocktail)

For a delicious alcohol-free version:

• 1 oz elderflower cordial or syrup
• 4 oz alcohol-free sparkling white wine (or additional sparkling water)
• 1 oz sparkling water
• Fresh mint leaves
• Slice of lime or lemon
• Ice

Prepare as you would the classic version, substituting the non-alcoholic ingredients.

Hugo Spritz Pitcher Recipe (Serves 8)

Perfect for entertaining:

• 1 bottle (750 ml) Prosecco, chilled
• 1 cup (8 oz) St-Germain elderflower liqueur
• 1 cup (8 oz) sparkling water
• 1 bunch fresh mint leaves
• 2 limes or lemons, sliced
• Ice

In a large pitcher, add plenty of ice, the mint leaves, and citrus slices. Pour in the elderflower liqueur, followed by the Prosecco and sparkling water. Stir gently and serve immediately in wine glasses with additional mint sprigs for garnish.

Serving Suggestions and Food Pairings

The Hugo Spritz, with its light, floral, and refreshing profile, makes it an excellent companion to a variety of foods. Here are some suggestions for serving and pairing this delightful cocktail:

Best Glassware and Presentation

While we’ve established that a large wine glass is traditional for the Hugo Spritz, presentation details can elevate the experience:

• Use crystal or high-quality glassware for special occasions
• Consider chilling the glasses in the freezer for 5-10 minutes before serving
• Arrange the mint garnish artfully so it extends above the rim of the glass
• Position the citrus wheel on the rim or floating in the cocktail
• Serve with a stirrer or straw for guests to mix as desired

Ideal Temperature and Timing

The Hugo Spritz is best served immediately after preparation while it’s cold and the carbonation is at its peak. If you’re hosting, prepare the glasses with ice and mint in advance, but add the liquid ingredients only when guests are ready to drink.

Appetizers and Small Plates

The Hugo Spritz pairs beautifully with light appetizers and small plates:

• Antipasti: Italian cured meats like prosciutto and salami
• Cheese: Fresh, mild cheeses such as mozzarella, burrata, or a young goat cheese
• Seafood: Shrimp cocktail, smoked salmon crostini, or oysters
• Bruschetta: Especially with fresh tomato and basil
• Olives: Particularly mild varieties like Castelvetrano
• Nuts: Lightly salted almonds or pistachios

Main Dishes

For a more substantial pairing, consider these main dishes:

• Salads: Arugula with lemon vinaigrette, citrus salad, or a classic Caprese
• Seafood: Grilled fish, shrimp scampi, or seafood pasta with light sauces
• Poultry: Lemon herb chicken or turkey with light seasonings
• Vegetarian: Spring vegetable risotto, asparagus tart, or vegetable frittata
• **Gluten-Free Meals **: Many gluten-free recipes pair wonderfully with the Hugo Spritz, offering light and refreshing flavor combinations

Desserts

The floral notes of elderflower complement certain desserts particularly well:

• Fruit-Based Desserts: Lemon tart, berry pavlova, or fruit salad
• Light Pastries: Vanilla macarons, shortbread cookies, or madeleines
• Custards: Panna cotta or crème brûlée with a hint of citrus

Seasonal Serving Suggestions

While the Hugo Spritz is primarily associated with summer, it can be adapted for year-round enjoyment:

• Spring: Pair with fresh pea dishes, asparagus, or strawberry-based desserts
• Summer: Serve with garden salads, grilled seafood, or stone fruit desserts
• Fall: Adapt the cocktail with a touch of pear or apple and pair with harvest vegetables
• Winter: Create a holiday version with a hint of cranberry and serve with lighter winter fare

When to Serve a Hugo Spritz

The versatility of the Hugo Spritz makes it appropriate for numerous occasions throughout the year, though it truly shines during the warmer months:

Seasonal Appropriateness

While the Hugo Spritz is most associated with summer, its refreshing nature makes it welcome from late spring through early fall. In warmer climates, it can be enjoyed year-round, particularly as a contrast to heavier winter fare and cocktails.

Time of Day

The Hugo Spritz falls into the category of aperitivo cocktails – drinks traditionally enjoyed before a meal to stimulate the appetite. In Italy, aperitivo hour typically falls between 7-9 PM, but the Hugo Spritz is light enough to be enjoyed earlier in the day as well:

• Brunch: Its lower alcohol content and refreshing profile make it a sophisticated alternative to mimosas
• Afternoon: Perfect for garden parties or lazy weekend afternoons
• Pre-Dinner: Ideal as an aperitivo before the evening meal
• Evening: Light enough to enjoy throughout a warm summer evening

Perfect Occasions

The Hugo Spritz is particularly well-suited to these gatherings:

• Garden Parties: Its floral notes complement outdoor settings beautifully
• Bridal Showers: The elegant appearance and light flavor make it perfect for celebrations
• Outdoor Weddings: A refreshing option for summer ceremonies
• Poolside Gatherings: The ultimate refreshment on hot days
• Picnics: Bring a pre-mixed pitcher (adding the sparkling components on-site)
• Dinner Parties: An impressive yet easy-to-make starter cocktail
• Solo Enjoyment: A civilized treat for a personal moment of relaxation

Party and Entertaining Ideas

If you’re featuring the Hugo Spritz at your next gathering, consider these ideas:

• Hugo Spritz Bar: Set up a DIY station with the base ingredients and various add-ins like berries, cucumber, and different herbs
• Food Pairing Flight: Offer mini Hugo Spritzes paired with bite-sized complementary foods
• Seasonal Theme: Create a “Taste of Northern Italy” theme with South Tyrolean-inspired foods and décor
• Glassware Feature: Use the occasion to showcase beautiful stemware
• Recipe Cards: Provide guests with recipe cards to recreate the cocktail at home

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Hugo Spritz taste like?

A Hugo Spritz has a delicate, floral flavor profile with notes of elderflower, subtle sweetness, and refreshing hints of mint and citrus. It’s light, effervescent, and less bitter than other spritz cocktails like the Aperol Spritz.

Is Hugo Spritz sweet?

The Hugo Spritz has a mild sweetness from the elderflower liqueur, but it’s balanced by the dryness of the Prosecco and the freshness of mint and citrus. It’s not overly sweet, making it refreshing rather than cloying.

What alcohol is in a Hugo Spritz?

A traditional Hugo Spritz contains St-Germain elderflower liqueur (20% ABV) and Prosecco (typically 11-12% ABV). The overall alcohol content of the finished cocktail is approximately 8-10% ABV, making it a relatively low-alcohol option compared to many other cocktails.

Can I make a Hugo Spritz without alcohol?

Absolutely! For a non-alcoholic version, substitute elderflower cordial or syrup for the St-Germain and use alcohol-free sparkling wine or additional sparkling water in place of the Prosecco. The result is a refreshing mocktail with the same floral and mint notes.

What can I substitute for elderflower liqueur?

If St-Germain or other elderflower liqueurs aren’t available, you can use elderflower cordial or syrup with a splash of vodka to approximate the flavor and alcohol content. In a pinch, other floral liqueurs like crème de violette (used very sparingly) or a light fruit liqueur could work, though the flavor profile will be different.

How many calories are in a Hugo Spritz?

A typical Hugo Spritz contains approximately 140-170 calories, with the elderflower liqueur and Prosecco contributing most of the caloric content. It’s relatively light compared to creamy cocktails or those with fruit juices and syrups.

Can I make a Hugo Spritz in advance?

You can prepare some elements in advance, such as muddling the mint and measuring the elderflower liqueur, but the carbonated ingredients should be added just before serving to maintain their effervescence. For parties, prepare a batch of the mint and elderflower base, then add the Prosecco and sparkling water as guests arrive.

What is the difference between Hugo Spritz and Aperol Spritz?

The main difference is in the key ingredients: Hugo Spritz uses elderflower liqueur, while Aperol Spritz uses Aperol (a bitter orange aperitif). This gives the Hugo Spritz a floral, slightly sweet flavor profile, while the Aperol Spritz has a bitter-sweet orange character. The Hugo Spritz also incorporates fresh mint, which isn’t found in the Aperol Spritz.

Where can I find elderflower liqueur?

St-Germain and other elderflower liqueurs are widely available at well-stocked liquor stores. If you can’t find it locally, many online retailers ship spirits depending on your location’s regulations. In some European countries, you might find homemade or local versions at farmers’ markets or specialty shops.

How long does elderflower liqueur last once opened?

Due to its high sugar content, elderflower liqueur has a good shelf life even after opening. Store it in a cool, dark place (not necessarily refrigerated), and it should maintain its quality for about 6 months. For the best flavor, try to use it within 3 months of opening.

Recipe Card

Hugo Spritz

The perfect refreshing cocktail for warm days and summer evenings

Prep Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink

Ingredients:

• 1 oz (30 ml) St-Germain elderflower liqueur
• 4 oz (120 ml) chilled Prosecco
• 1 oz (30 ml) club soda or sparkling water
• 5-10 fresh mint leaves, plus a sprig for garnish
• 1 slice of lime or lemon
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Fill a large wine glass halfway with ice cubes.
2. Add mint leaves to the glass and gently muddle to release the oils.
3. Pour in the elderflower liqueur.
4. Slowly add the chilled Prosecco.
5. Top with club soda or sparkling water.
6. Gently stir to combine all ingredients.
7. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a slice of lime or lemon.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes:

• For best results, ensure all ingredients are well-chilled before mixing.
• The ratio of ingredients can be adjusted to taste – add more elderflower liqueur for a sweeter drink or more Prosecco for a drier version.
• To make a pitcher for a crowd, see the Hugo Spritz Pitcher Recipe variation in the article.

Nutrition Information (approximate per serving):

• Calories: 155
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Sugar: 13g
• Alcohol: 9% ABV

Conclusion

The Hugo Spritz represents everything a summer cocktail should be – refreshing, light, aromatic, and visually appealing. Its relatively recent creation proves that modern classics can emerge when quality ingredients are combined with thoughtful balance and an understanding of what makes a drink truly enjoyable.

What makes the Hugo Spritz particularly special is its versatility. It’s sophisticated enough for special occasions yet simple enough for casual enjoyment. It pairs beautifully with a wide range of foods, from light appetizers to seafood mains, making it a perfect companion throughout a meal or an evening of entertaining.

As the popularity of spritz cocktails continues to grow worldwide, the Hugo Spritz offers a wonderful alternative to the more common Aperol Spritz, especially for those who prefer floral notes to bitter ones. Its lower alcohol content also makes it an excellent choice for occasions where you want to enjoy a cocktail without the stronger effects of higher-proof drinks.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also want to explore our other cocktail recipes like the Carajillo or Black Manhattan . For food pairing ideas, check out our Gluten-Free Meals or Betty Crocker Recipes for inspiration.

We encourage you to try this delightful cocktail at your next gathering or as a special treat for yourself. Experiment with the variations we’ve suggested or create your own unique twist. The Hugo Spritz is a cocktail that invites creativity while remaining true to its refreshing, floral core.

Cheers to summer sipping at its finest!