Light, bubbly, and botanical, the Hugo Spritz is Italy’s fragrant answer to a summer cocktail. Made with elderflower liqueur, Prosecco, mint, and soda, this refreshing aperitivo is a northern Italian favorite that’s perfect for warm weather, garden parties, or rooftop toasts. Learn how to make this elegant cocktail at home — no Italian terrace required.

A Northern Italian Gem

The Hugo Spritz was created in the early 2000s by Roland Gruber in South Tyrol, Italy, as an alternative to the Aperol Spritz. Its lighter, herbal flavor and use of elderflower liqueur gave it instant popularity, especially among those looking for a more floral twist on classic Italian spritzes. Today, it’s a staple throughout Northern Italy and gaining love worldwide for its sophistication and simplicity.

Hugo on the Scene

You’ll find the Hugo Spritz on cocktail menus from Milan to Miami, especially at rooftop bars and coastal lounges. Its growing popularity has made it a go-to among sommeliers and mixologists seeking balance in summer drinks. Bartenders at Eataly, Cecconi’s, and even Nobu have added variations with cucumber, lemon balm, or flavored bitters.

Serve It With Style

The Hugo Spritz pairs beautifully with light Italian appetizers like prosciutto and melon, burrata with basil, or a crisp arugula salad. Serve it as a welcome drink at garden parties or brunches. For an authentic Italian touch, use a stemmed wine glass and garnish extravagantly — mint sprigs and lime wheels go a long way in presentation.

Ready to bring the taste of Northern Italy to your next gathering? Try your hand at the Hugo Spritz and enjoy a burst of herbal-citrus refreshment that feels like summer in a glass. And if you’ve fallen for the magic of Italian aperitivo hour, don’t stop here—explore our other spritz favorites:

Aperol Spritz – the bold and bittersweet classic
Limoncello Spritz – lemony sunshine with a southern twist
Negroni – for those who like it strong, stirred, and stylish
Bellini – peachy perfection with prosecco sparkle

Salute to spritz season! Be sure to leave a comment, share your own twist on the Hugo, or tag us on Instagram with your Italian creations. And if you’re visiting Italy soon, don’t forget to book a spritz-making class—your future aperitivo self will thank you.

Hugo Spritz

The Hugo Spritz is a light, floral Italian cocktail perfect for summer afternoons. Originating in South Tyrol, this sparkling drink combines elderflower liqueur, prosecco, soda water, and fresh mint, creating an effervescent and slightly sweet aperitivo.

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Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Course Drinks

Cuisine Italian

Servings 1 cocktail

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

Wine glass or spritz glass
Bar spoon
Jigger or shot glass

Ingredients

3 oz Prosecco chilled
2 oz Elderflower liqueur like St-Germain
1 oz Soda water or sparkling water
4-5 Fresh mint leaves
2 Lime slices for garnish
Ice cubes

Instructions

In a large wine glass, add the mint leaves and gently press with a bar spoon to release the aroma — do not muddle harshly.
Add plenty of ice to the glass to chill the drink.
Pour in the elderflower liqueur followed by the Prosecco.
Top with soda water and give it a gentle stir to combine.
Garnish with lime slices and an extra mint sprig for aroma

Notes

This cocktail is easy to batch for summer gatherings. Adjust mint and lime to your personal taste. Use a drier Prosecco if you prefer less sweetness.

Keyword Apertivo, Hugo Spritz, Italian cocktail, Prosecco, summer apertivo