As the summer heat rolls in, everyone is looking for the ultimate refreshing cocktail to enjoy on the patio. Move over Aperol Spritz, because there is a new bubbly drink taking over TikTok and summer parties across the US and Europe: The Hugo Spritz.
Originating from the beautiful alpine regions of Northern Italy, this light, crisp, and floral cocktail is incredibly easy to make. If you love clean, refreshing flavors with a hint of mint and elderflower, this is going to be your new go-to beverage.
Here is the authentic, step-by-step guide to making a picture-perfect Hugo Spritz right in your kitchen.
The Secret Ingredients You Need
Unlike heavy cocktails, the Hugo Spritz relies on fresh, aromatic ingredients. Gather these items before you start:
.Prosecco (Dry Sparkling Wine): 3-4 ounces (Chilled)
.Elderflower Liqueur or Syrup: 1-2 ounces (St-Germain is the most popular choice)
.Club Soda or Sparkling Water: A splash to top it off
.Fresh Mint Leaves: 4-5 leaves
.Lime Slices: For garnish
Ice Cubes: Plenty of them
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Follow these simple steps to build your drink directly in the glass—no cocktail shaker required
Step 1: Awaken the Mint
Take 4-5 fresh mint leaves and place them at the bottom of a large wine glass. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press the leaves. This releases the essential oils and creates that signature fresh aroma.
Step 2: Add the Sweet Floral Base
Pour 1 to 2 ounces of elderflower liqueur (or elderflower syrup for a slightly sweeter, lower-alcohol version) over the slapped mint leaves. Let it sit for a few seconds to infuse.
Step 3: Ice it Up
Fill your wine glass generously with large ice cubes. Keeping the drink ice-cold is crucial for preventing the sparkling wine from going flat too quickly.
Step 4: Pour the Bubbly
Pour 3 to 4 ounces of high-quality chilled Prosecco into the glass. You will immediately see the beautiful bubbles mixing with the elderflower base.
Step 5: The Final Splash and Garnish
Top off the glass with a quick splash of club soda for extra fizz. Give it a very gentle stir from the bottom up. Drop in a fresh round slice of lime and a sprig of mint on top for that professional restaurant look.
Why the Hugo Spritz is Trending in 2026
Foreign crowds are moving away from bitter drinks and embracing clean, low-alcohol options. The Hugo Spritz offers the perfect balance: it is not too sweet, highly refreshing, and looks stunning in photos. It is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for brunch, pool days, or evening dinners.Enjoy your drink responsibly, and share this recipe with your friends at the next backyard barbecue!
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