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Are you ready to enjoy summer in a glass? Then say hello to this super delicious Hugo Spritz recipe! (Also known as my new favorite cocktail.)

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I read a lot about cocktails and cocktail trends, and lately, everywhere I turn someone is talking about a Hugo Spritz. Many have dubbed it the "Spritz of the Season" or the "Drink of the Summer," while others have even gone so far as to label it "The Drink of 2023."

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Now y'all know I love a Spritz, but I'm also a creature of habit and typically reach for Campari when making one for myself. But given the endless chatter about this Hugo Spritz recipe, I finally had to give it a go. And now I officially understand all the hoopla!

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Elderflower Liqueur is the star of the show in this drink, and there's something absolutely delightful about combining it with sparkling wine. I typically find elderflower to be a rather overwhelming flavor so I usually go light with it in cocktails. But not in this tipple! It shines beautifully in the best ways, with the citrus and mint serving to perfectly balance its sweetness.

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So summery and fresh, this Hugo Spritz cocktail recipe is one that simply makes you happy. So much so that it might just become the Spritz of the Summer at my house!

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What is a Hugo Spritz?

Hugo Spritz History

Ingredients for a Hugo Spritz

How to Make a Hugo Spritz Cocktail

Hugo Spritz Pitcher Recipe

When to Serve a Hugo Spritz

Equipment Needed

More Bubbly Cocktails to Try

Hugo Spritz Recipe Frequently Asked Questions

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What is a Hugo Spritz?

The Hugo Spritz is a deliciously refreshing cocktail that originated in the breathtaking province of South Tyrol, Italy. Offering the perfect blend of aromatic elderflower, fresh mint, zesty citrus, and sparkling Prosecco, the Hugo Spritz embodies the essence of a leisurely afternoon in the Mediterranean.

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At its core, the Hugo Spritz is an elderflower cocktail that celebrates simplicity and balance. The floral notes from the Elderflower Liqueur complement the crispness of the Prosecco, while the mint and the citrus add a refreshing twist to every sip.

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This cocktail is not only visually appealing, but it also offers a delightful drinking experience. Its light and effervescent nature makes it the perfect companion for a sunny afternoon gathering, a picnic in the park, a barbeque in your own backyard, or a relaxed evening on the patio.

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Hugo Spritz History

To truly appreciate the allure of this drink, it's essential to delve into the Hugo Spritz origin. This popular cocktail can be traced back to the picturesque landscapes of South Tyrol, a province of the Trentino-Alto Adige region nestled in the north of Italy.

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The story of this Hugo cocktail recipe begins in 2005 when a creative bartender named Roland Gruber developed the recipe at a cocktail bar in the charming town of Naturno along the Italian-Austrian border. Inspired by the beauty of the elderflower trees growing wildly in valleys surrounding the Dolomite Alps and the desire to craft a light, refreshing alternative to the traditional Aperol Spritz, Gruber set out to create something truly unique.

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Word of this enchanting cocktail spread like wildfire, and it didn't take long for the Hugo Spritz to gain popularity throughout Italy and beyond. It captured the hearts and palates of cocktail enthusiasts seeking refreshing cocktails that embodied the spirit of the Mediterranean.

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The drink's rise to fame was further fueled by its presence at various cultural events and festivals in South Tyrol, where it became synonymous with celebration and enjoyment. Its refreshing nature and versatility made it a favorite among locals particularly during warm summer months, and it soon found its way into cocktail bars and lounges around the world.

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Today, the Hugo Spritz continues to please cocktail aficionados with its delicate blend of ingredients and effortless elegance. While the original recipe remains a beloved classic, mixologists have put their own spin on the cocktail, experimenting with different variations to suit a variety of tastes and preferences.

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Ingredients for a Hugo Spritz

One of the key factors behind the irresistible appeal of this Hugo recipe lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors that make this cocktail so exceptional.

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Let's take a closer look at the essential ingredients you'll need to craft the best Hugo Spritz recipe:

• ELDERFLOWER LIQUEUR: The star of the show, Elderflower Liqueur infuses the Hugo Spritz with its distinctive sweet, floral notes. This fragrant ingredient captures the essence of blooming elderflowers and lends a delightful, aromatic quality to the cocktail. My go-to in this liqueur category is St-Germain French Liqueur.
• PROSECCO: As the backbone of this Hugo Spritz recipe, Prosecco adds effervescence and elegance. While the original recipe calls for Prosecco, you can also use other types of bubbly such as Spanish Cava or Champagne. Whatever type of sparkling wine you prefer will set the stage for a light and bubbly base that complements the other ingredients.
• SPARKLING WATER: To balance the sweetness and add a refreshing touch, the gentle fizziness of sparkling water helps the flavors to meld together seamlessly.
• SLICE OF LIME OR SLICE OF LEMON: The zesty tang of fresh citrus provides a hint of acidity to counterbalance the sweetness of the elderflower, adding a vibrant element to the Hugo Spritz cocktail.
• FRESH MINT: The fragrance of fresh mint leaves not only enhances the visual appeal of the Hugo Spritz drink but also contributes to its overall flavor profile. With its cool, herbaceous aroma, the mint adds an invigorating dimension.

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These five primary Hugo Spritz ingredients form the foundation of this drink but feel free to add your own creative twists. Some variations incorporate additional elements like slices of fresh cucumber, basil, or even a splash of dry Gin for a stronger drink.

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Remember, the quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the final result. Opt for a good-quality bottle of Prosecco or sparkling wine that suits your taste preferences, choose a reputable liqueur such as St Germain Elderflower Liqueur, and source fresh, vibrant produce for the citrus and mint. Investing in high-quality ingredients ensures a superior Hugo Spritz experience.

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Hugo Spritz Original Recipe

In the original Hugo Spritz recipe, cocktail historians say that lemon balm syrup was used before Gruber replaced it with the more readily available elderflower. It is also said that the cocktail was initially called the "Otto Spritz," but Roland changed it to "Hugo" because he thought it sounded better.

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Best Hugo Spritz Recipe with St-Germain: How to Make

Making this Hugo Spritz cocktail recipe is more effortless than you might think. With just these few simple steps, you'll quickly be able to enjoy the refreshing and effervescent flavors of this modern cocktail.

1. Add 1 oz Elderflower Liqueur and some mint leaves to the bottom of a large wine glass and gently muddle.
2. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
3. Pour in 4 oz Prosecco.
4. Using a bar spoon, give the mixture a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
5. Top off the glass with 1 oz sparkling water.
6. Take a sprig of fresh mint leaves and lightly clap it between your hands to release its aromatic oils. Place the mint sprig and a slice of lemon or a lime wheel in the glass as a garnish, allowing their fragrances to infuse with the drink.

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While a classic Spritz recipe follows the three parts Prosecco, two parts liqueur, and one part club soda formula, feel free to experiment with ingredient proportions to suit your personal taste. My recipe errs on the drier side, so if you prefer a sweeter cocktail simply add more liqueur. The beauty of this recipe for a Hugo Spritz lies in its adaptability, allowing you to tailor it to your liking!

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Hugo Spritz ml

To measure this recipe in milliliters, use the following:

• 29.5 ml Elderflower Liqueur
• 118 ml Prosecco
• 29.5 ml Seltzer Water

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Elderflower Mocktail

If you're looking to enjoy the vibrant flavors of a traditional Hugo Spritz but prefer a non-alcoholic option, fear not! Transforming this beloved cocktail into a mocktail is super easy. Follow the same directions as above, just use elderflower cordial or elderflower syrup in place of the liqueur and substitute sparkling water for the sparkling wine.

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Hugo Spritz Pitcher Recipe

Hosting a gathering or simply looking to share the joy of this Hugo Spritz recipe with friends and family? A pitcher of this cocktail is the perfect solution. Here's a simple pitcher recipe to help you serve Hugo Spritzes to a crowd.

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INGREDIENTS:

• 1 bottle of Prosecco
• 3/4 cup of Elderflower Liqueur
• 3/4 cup of sparkling water
• A handful of fresh mint leaves
• 8-10 lime slices or lemon slices
• Ice Cubes

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INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Fill a large pitcher with ice cubes and pour in all of the liquid ingredients.
2. Take a handful of fresh mint leaves and lightly clap them between your hands to release their aromatic oils. Add the mint leaves along with the citrus slices to the pitcher.
3. Stir the mixture gently until combined.
4. When serving, garnish each glass with a sprig of mint and a lime wedge or lemon wedge for a final touch of elegance.

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The specs for this Hugo Spritz batch recipe are based on my recipe for an individual drink. However, like with any cocktail, adjust the ratios to suit your personal taste.

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Italian Hugo Spritz Recipe: When to Serve

The Hugo Spritz has gained international recognition for its versatility. It can be enjoyed as an apéritif to stimulate the appetite or as a refreshing sipper to unwind after a long day. Its low alcohol content and invigorating taste also make it a natural choice for those looking for a lighter alternative to heavier cocktails.

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Some popular times to serve a Hugo drink include:

• Happy hour or during Italian aperitivo
• Outdoor gatherings or backyard barbecues
• Weekend brunch
• Special occasions such as birthday parties, wedding showers, or baby showers
• As a pre-dinner drink
• Any time of year you want an easy-to-make and refreshingly light drink at home!

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Equipment Needed for this Hugo Spritz Recipe

When it comes to mixing a perfect Hugo Spritz cocktail, having the right equipment will ensure a flawless result. Here are the essential tools you'll need:

• WINE GLASSES: Opt for large wine glasses to showcase the cocktail's elegant appearance and allow room for ice and garnishes. I adore these large Cabernet wine glasses for more formal occasions and these universal wine glasses for everyday Spritz sipping.
• MUDDLER: A muddler is essential for gently pressing and releasing the flavors of the mint leaves. For muddling soft herbs like mint and basil, I recommend this wooden muddler.
• BAR SPOON: A long-handled bar spoon is ideal for stirring this cocktail as it ensures the ingredients are thoroughly mixed without excessive agitation. I typically reach for this Japanese-style bar spoon in my day-to-day cocktail making.
• ICE CUBE TRAY: Although completely optional, uniform ice cubes make this drink extra visually appealing. I always have these 1-inch silicone ice cube trays filled and ready to use!
• JIGGER: To measure precise amounts of the ingredients, a jigger is indispensable. My go-to is a Japanese jigger, but this glass jigger is beautiful and makes a lovely prop for drink photos.

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Having these essential tools at your disposal will streamline the cocktail-making process, ensuring you can create this delightful Hugo Spritz recipe with ease and confidence.

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More Bubbly Cocktails You’ll Love

If you enjoy this Hugo Spritz recipe, here are a few more fizzy cocktails to try:

• BLACKBERRY CHAMPAGNE FIZZ: a vibrant cocktail combining the luscious sweetness of blackberries with the celebratory bubbles of Champagne
• BELLINI: the velvety smoothness of peach purée meets the sparkling brilliance of Prosecco in this classic cocktail
• ROSEMARY POMEGRANATE SPARKLER: a sophisticated cocktail that infuses the refreshing tartness of pomegranate juice with the aromatic essence of rosemary
• ARNOLD PALMER MIMOSA: zesty lemonade and refreshing iced tea come together with lively sparkling wine
• SPICED CRANBERRY FRENCH 75: a captivating cocktail that combines the festive tang of cranberry with a touch of warm spice
• LILLET SPRITZ: a light and floral cocktail that brings together the citrusy notes of Lillet Blanc with the sparkle of soda water

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Frequently Asked Questions about this Italian Hugo Spritz drink recipe

The Hugo Spritz holds an irresistible appeal, and while it’s easy to whip up, you may find yourself pondering a few lingering questions. In this section, I’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Italian Spritzes and this Hugo Spritz drink recipe. And perhaps you'll even learn a fun fact or two about this popular Italian cocktail!

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Who invented the Hugo Spritz?

The Hugo Spritz was invented by Roland Gruber, a barman from Naturno, Italy.

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What is the famous Spritz in Italy?

Italy boasts a plethora of delightful Spritz cocktail recipes, but none quite match the fame of the Aperol Spritz. This iconic tipple combines Aperol, a bitter orange liqueur, with Prosecco and a splash of soda water, resulting in a cocktail with a visually striking orange hue and a truly refreshing flavor. Embraced as a beloved apéritif in Italian culture, the Aperol Spritz captures the essence of conviviality.

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In addition to this classic, other renowned Italian Spritz variations featuring sparkling Italian wines include the zesty Limoncello Spritz, the enticing Spritz Veneziano, and the vibrant Campari Spritz.

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What’s in a Hugo Spritz?

The Hugo Spritz typically consists of Prosecco (or sparkling wine such as Cava or Champagne), Elderflower Liqueur, sparkling water, lemon or lime, and fresh mint.

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What is elderflower liqueur?

Elderflower Liqueur is a sweet and aromatic liqueur made from the petals of white elderflowers. It is typically clear or pale yellow in color and offers a distinctively floral and slightly sweet taste. One of the most popular brands to use in cocktails is St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur.

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What is the difference between Aperol Spritz and Hugo Spritz?

The Aperol Spritz and the Hugo Spritz differ primarily in their main ingredients, resulting in distinct flavor profiles. While the Aperol Spritz highlights the Italian bitter orange liqueur known as Aperol, the Hugo Spritz takes center stage with its star ingredient, Elderflower Liqueur. This contrast gives the Aperol Spritz a subtle bitterness and citrusy notes, while the Hugo Spritz has a sweeter, more floral taste. Each cocktail offers its own unique charm, catering to diverse palates and preferences.

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Best Hugo Spritz Recipe: The Wrap-Up

If you're a fan of light, refreshing, classic Italian cocktails, then you're in for a treat with this Hugo Spritz cocktail recipe! This sparkling elderflower elixir, born in the picturesque region of Northern Italy, combines the floral allure of elderflower with the effervescence of Prosecco and the freshness of mint and citrus. It’s super easy to make and pairs perfectly with any occasion.

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After indulging in a number of these tipples over the last few weeks, it has quickly become one of my go-to cocktails! And something tells me it might also become one of yours…..

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Have you tried the Hugo Spritz? Or do you have your own favorite variation of this effervescent cocktail? Let me know in the comments below as I'm always looking for a new tasty Hugo Spritz drink recipe to try!

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A writer and photographer, Allie Albanese is the founder and curator of Parched Around the World. Here she seeks to tell stories about the intersection of food, drinks, cultures, and traditions in places near and far.

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As the Beverage Director and Head Bartender of a high-volume cocktail bar, Allie spent years honing her mixology skills and learning about the fascinating world of drinks. In the time since, she's worked as a wine and cocktail consultant for both private and corporate clients, as well as a freelance journalist writing about cocktails, wine, food, and travel for various publications across the United States and abroad.

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When mixing a drink for herself, you’ll likely find Allie with a fresh Gin Gimlet or a spicy Old Fashioned in hand!