Hugo Spritz – Elderflower, Prosecco & Mint Italian Spritz

The Hugo Spritz is a refreshing combination of Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, soda water, mint, and lime. Floral sweetness from the elderflower meets crisp sparkling wine, while mint and citrus keep the drink fresh and aromatic. Built directly over ice, the Hugo Spritz is especially well suited to warm afternoons, brunch, and relaxed outdoor gatherings.

From the Alps to the Aperitivo Table

The Hugo Spritz is associated with northern Italy's South Tyrol region and became popular during the 2000s as a lighter, floral alternative to more bitter aperitivo spritzes. Elderflower, sparkling wine, mint, and citrus became the drink's defining combination, and the Hugo has since spread widely through Italian and European aperitivo culture.

What You'll Need

Ingredients

• Elderflower liqueur: Adds the drink's signature floral sweetness.
• Prosecco: Provides the crisp sparkling wine base and most of the drink's bubbles.
• Soda water: Lightens the mixture and adds extra carbonation.
• Mint sprig: Brings a cool herbal aroma to every sip.
• Lime: Adds fresh citrus aroma and a touch of acidity from the garnish.

Useful substitutions:

• No Prosecco? Use another dry sparkling wine such as Cava.
• No elderflower liqueur? Elderflower syrup can provide a similar floral note, but use it sparingly because it is sweeter and produces a different drink.
• No soda water? Plain sparkling mineral water works well.
• No lime? A lemon wheel provides a brighter, slightly softer citrus variation.

Equipment

• White wine glass
• Jigger
• Bar spoon
• Ice

Why the Hugo Stays Light

Floral Without Becoming Heavy

The small amount of elderflower liqueur adds enough sweetness and aroma to be noticeable without overpowering the Prosecco. Soda water stretches the drink, while mint and lime add fresh aromas that make the spritz taste lighter than its ingredient list suggests.

Substitutions & Variations

• Drier Hugo: Choose a brut Prosecco and add a little extra soda water.
• Citrus-forward version: Gently squeeze the lime garnish over the glass before dropping it in.
• Herbal variation: Add an extra mint sprig for a stronger fresh-mint aroma.
• Different bubbles: Substitute Cava or another dry sparkling wine for the Prosecco.

Helpful Tips

• Chill the Prosecco and soda water before building the drink.
• Use plenty of ice so the spritz stays cold without melting too quickly.
• Add sparkling ingredients gently to preserve carbonation.
• Stir only once or twice after adding the soda water.
• Lightly clap the mint rather than crushing or muddling it, which can introduce bitter vegetal flavors.
• Add the mint and lime just before serving so their aromas stay fresh.
• When making several drinks, portion the elderflower liqueur into each glass first, then finish individually with chilled Prosecco and soda water.