Hugo Spritz (St-Germain Spritz)

The Hugo Spritz cocktail is a relatively recent addition to the cocktail scene, the original recipe have been created in the early 2000s by bartender Roland Gruber, from South Tyrol, in Northern Italy. It's a twist on the classic Italian spritzes like Aperol Spritz or the Campari Spritz. The Hugo Spritz substitutes elderflower syrup for the Aperol or Campari, resulting in a sweeter, delicate, floral notes both refreshing and aromatic, instead of a bitter aperitif.

This Hugo cocktail has quickly gained popularity due to its light and refreshing nature, making it the perfect drink for warm weather on a hot day. Its elegant presentation, often garnished with fresh mint leaves and lime slices, also makes it a visually appealing choice for gatherings and parties, quickly becoming a classic Italian cocktail for the aperitivo hour.

🧾 Ingredients

To create the perfect Hugo Spritz recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• Prosecco: A sparkling white wine from Italy. Choose a dry or extra dry Prosecco to balance the sweetness of the elderflower syrup.
• Elderflower Syrup: This is the star ingredient that gives the Hugo Spritz its distinctive floral flavor. Brands of elderflower liqueur like St. Germaine or Monin are popular choices, but any high-quality elderflower syrup will do.
• Soda Water: A splash of soda water adds effervescence and lightens the drink. Any brand of soda water or club soda will work.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: These add a burst of freshness and a lovely green color. Gently muddle them to release their flavor.
• Lime Slices: Fresh lime adds a zesty citrus note that complements the floral elderflower and mint.
• Ice Cubes: To keep your drink chilled without diluting the flavors.

See the recipe card for quantities.

🍳 Substitutions

If you don't have all the ingredients on hand, here are some substitutions that work well:

1. Prosecco: If you can't find Prosecco, you can use any dry sparkling wine or even a dry Champagne.
2. Elderflower Syrup: In place of St-Germain elderflower liqueur, you can use elderflower cordial.
3. Soda Water: Any carbonated mineral water can be used, including tonic water for a slightly different flavor profile.
4. Mint: If fresh mint sprig is unavailable, you can use a few drops of mint extract, though the flavor won't be as vibrant.
5. Lime: Lemon slices can be used instead of lime for a different citrus twist.

🥣 Variations

The Hugo Spritz recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are a few variations of this refreshing drink you can try:

1. Berry: Add a handful of fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries to the mix for a fruity twist.
2. Citrus: Use a combination of lemon, lime, and orange slices for a more citrus-forward drink. You can also try adding lemon balm syrup.
3. Herbal: Experiment with different herbs like basil or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.
4. Ginger: Add a splash of ginger ale or a few slices of fresh ginger for a spicy kick
5. Strawberry Spritz: Add some strawberries in the glass and a sprig of mint for a fruity elderflower spritz.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

Serve your Hugo Spritz in large wine glass or a spritz glass. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and lime slices or a lemon wheel for a beautiful and aromatic presentation. This great cocktail pairs well with light appetizers like bruschetta, taralli, or focaccia. A perfect happy hour on a summer afternoon.

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