Hugo Spritz

Floral and sweet elderflower cordial is used with fresh lemon, mint, prosecco, and soda water over ice to make for a refreshing cocktail originating from northern Italy. This Hugo Spritz recipe will “WOW” your guests with every refreshing sip on hot summer days!

WHAT’S NEW?

Spring break is here! Man, I’m ready for it! Our professor has already warned that the semester will finish out with a bang (finals, projects, essays, oh my!) and the elementary schools will be counting down the days until summer. Kids always get a little squirrely in anticipation of summer and now I’m one of those kids! Except there’s that whole summer school thing, but hey, one step at a time.

For several reasons, but much to do with health and my ever decreasing tolerance for alcohol, I drink less than I ever have as an adult. That said, I still enjoy a fun drink sometimes! Reducing my alcohol consumption has included both my frequency of drinking as well as a change in my selection of drinks. These Hugo Spritzes may just be my new favorite cocktail because they’re lower in alcohol and incredibly refreshing with its floral notes and dreamy, bubbly prosecco. Enjoy!

ROLL CALL FOR THIS RECIPE

• Happy Hour: This Hugo Spritz is a fun, effervescent cocktail or apéritif offering great flavor and a lighter alternative to many other cocktails.
• Entertaining: This delightful cocktail is perfect for hosting friends or family on a hot day! This may quickly become your drink of the summer!
• Adaptable: These simple ingredients can be used in different quantities and ratios to create a delicious cocktail based on personal preference.

KEY INGREDIENTS AND SUBSTITUTIONS

• Elderflower Liqueur: A common brand is St. Germain however any elderflower syrup or cordial will work, such as Huana Guanabana Liqueur, Fiorente, Thatcher’s, Italicus di Bergamotto, or Bitter Truth. These all offer a floral, sweet flavor with hints of honeysuckle, honey, rose, and peach.
• Mint: Fresh mint is an essential flavor and scent to a lovely Hugo Spritz. Any variety of mint will work well.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon is ideal for both muttling as well as garnishes, however a lemon juice will work okay in a pinch as will grapefruit. You’ll want about 2 teaspoons of juice.
• Prosecco: Any dry bubbly spumante, brut, or prosecco will work best however you can certainly use something sweeter, such as an asti, if preferred. 
• Soda Water: Your favorite club soda or sparkling water provides the perfect balance of flavors. You can certainly used a flavored splash of soda water, however I prefer a pure or plain, unflavored variety.
• Ice Cubes: I would recommend large ice cubes versus crushed ice to keep the drink from getting watered down.

FAQ

Are there other garnishings for a classic Hugo Spritz you would recommend?

Depending on what you have available, an edible flower adds a unique aromatic touch. Other fresh fruit such as grapefruit, peach, or lime slices can be used in this refreshing summer drink.

What kind of glass do you recommend serving these Italian spritzes in?

A stemmed, large wine glass is a fun presentation, as are stemless wine glasses. That said, use your favorite glassware or stemwear.

Can you keep a partial bottle of prosecco?

Yes! Keep the prosecco chilled and covered with a hermetic cork or champagne sealer if you have one. Otherwise, cover the top of the bottle with plastic wrap and a tight-fitting rubberband or place a metal fork or spoon handle inserted into the neck of the bottle.

NUTRITIONAL MERITS

• Elderflower liquor is 40 prood (20% alcohol by volume) and prosecco is in the ballpark of 11-12% alcohol by volume making this cocktail lower in its alcohol content
• This recipe is vegan and gluten-free 
• Relatively low in carbohydrate and sugar with 13 grams and 11 grams, respectively

VARIATIONS, STORAGE, and TIPS

• For the best cocktails, prepare just before serving to ensure your soda water and prosecco do not go flat and the ice does not water down your beverage
• Don’t use a cocktail shaker for this recipe – the fizziness from the prosecco and soda water are best not shaken.
• This recipe is sweet but not overly sweet. You can reduce the amount of soda water added or consider adding a splash of honey or simple syrup for additional layers of flavor and added sweetness.
• Be sure to include the garnish after a quick stir for a beautiful presentation. Include a mint sprig last!

Seeking more fun cocktails or mocktails? SO many to choose from!

• Rosemary Ginger Coconut Water Mocktail
• Apple Cider Mocktail
• Cranberry Gin Mule Cocktail
• Blueberry Mocktail
• Rose Sangria with Apple and Berries

Be well,