Hugo Spritz Recipe – The Best Floral Mocktail for Summer (2025)

If you’re searching for the ultimate summer cocktail, look no further than the Hugo Spritz recipe. Light, floral, bubbly, and refreshingly cool, this Italian drink has skyrocketed in popularity across Europe and the U.S. for a reason. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party, lounging on the patio, or just want something different from the usual Aperol Spritz, the Hugo is your new go-to.

This article breaks down everything you need to know about crafting the perfect Hugo Spritz—from its origin and authentic ingredients to serving suggestions, flavor variations, and Prosecco pairing tips. Plus, we’ll cover how to make it by the glass or pitcher, so you’re ready for a crowd or a solo sip.

Looking for inspiration? Try our refreshing smoothie idea to pair with cocktails or serve as a brunch finisher.

Ready to fall in love with this sparkling, herbaceous drink? Let’s dive into what makes the Hugo Spritz a standout in the world of spritz cocktails.

Jump to Recipe

What Is a Hugo Spritz?

The Origins of the Hugo Spritz Cocktail

The Hugo Spritz is a relatively new addition to the world of Italian aperitifs, but it’s quickly become a modern classic. Originating in the South Tyrol region of Northern Italy around 2005, this cocktail was first created by bartender Roland Gruber as an alternative to the slightly more bitter Aperol Spritz. His idea? A refreshing drink with floral notes that would appeal to those seeking something lighter, more aromatic, and ideal for summer sipping.

While its fame started in the alpine towns near the Austrian border, it didn’t take long for the Hugo to spread across Italy—and then the globe. Today, you’ll find it featured on cocktail menus from Rome to New York, often labeled as a “refreshing elderflower spritz” or a “mint-infused Prosecco cocktail.”

The Hugo fits perfectly within the family of low-alcohol aperitivo drinks, designed to be enjoyed before meals to stimulate the appetite. Unlike many cocktails, its delicate flavor doesn’t overpower the palate, making it ideal for warm-weather occasions and laid-back get-togethers.

Why Hugo Spritz Became a Popular Summer Drink

So, what made the Hugo Spritz recipe blow up in popularity? It’s all about that magical combination of light bubbles, subtle sweetness, and cool herbal freshness. At its core, the Hugo blends elderflower syrup, crisp Prosecco, soda water, and fresh mint. The result is a cocktail that’s not only incredibly easy to make but also effortlessly elegant.

Unlike heavier, spirit-forward drinks, the Hugo offers a lower alcohol option that still feels sophisticated. It’s this exact balance that appeals to those who enjoy social drinking without the buzz of stronger cocktails.

Add to that its Instagram-worthy aesthetic—bright green mint leaves, thin lime slices, and fizzy bubbles rising through a wine glass—and it’s no wonder the Hugo has become the darling of summer gatherings and beachside bars.

Discover great ideas like this sourdough pancake brunch pairing to enjoy before or after your spritz hour.

Whether you’re planning an aperitivo hour or just craving something new and bubbly, the Hugo Spritz delivers an experience that’s equal parts refreshing, elegant, and undeniably easy to love.

Hugo Spritz Ingredients and Flavor Profile

Classic Hugo Spritz Ingredients List

The charm of the Hugo Spritz lies in its effortless elegance—just a few ingredients come together to create something truly refreshing. With just a few high-quality ingredients, you can craft a cocktail that feels both luxurious and refreshing. Here’s what you’ll need to make the classic version:

Ingredient	Amount (per glass)	Purpose
Prosecco	3 oz (90 ml)	Sparkling wine base
Elderflower syrup	1 oz (30 ml)	Sweet, floral flavor
Sparkling water	2 oz (60 ml)	Lightens and adds fizz
Fresh mint leaves	5–6 leaves	Herbal freshness
Lime slices	2–3 thin slices	Citrus edge and visual appeal
Ice cubes	As needed	Keeps it cool and crisp

These ingredients combine to create the signature profile of the Hugo: light, herbal, bubbly, and slightly sweet. If you’re unable to find elderflower syrup at your local store, elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain) is an excellent substitute—just reduce the amount slightly to avoid overpowering sweetness.

Don’t miss our chorizo burrito recipe if you want a bold brunch to match your Hugo Spritz!

What Does a Hugo Spritz Taste Like?

The Hugo Spritz cocktail has a delicate and refined flavor, perfect for those who prefer lighter beverages. It opens with the soft floral sweetness of elderflower, followed by a refreshing burst of mint and citrus. Prosecco adds a lively sparkle and a crisp dryness that perfectly offsets the floral sweetness of the syrup.

Unlike the bite of Aperol-based cocktails, this one skips the bitterness—making it a hit even with non-cocktail drinkers. Each sip is a gentle mix of summer garden aromas, subtle sparkle, and smooth refreshment.

This flavor profile makes the Hugo ideal as:

• A pre-dinner aperitif
• A light drink for brunch
• A poolside refresher
• A signature drink for weddings or garden parties

Because it’s not too sweet and not too dry, the Hugo appeals to a wide range of tastes—making it a crowd-pleaser at nearly any gathering.

Step-by-Step Hugo Spritz Recipe Guide

What’s the Secret to Mixing the Perfect Hugo Spritz in Your Kitchen?

Making the perfect Hugo Spritz recipe doesn’t require fancy tools or expert-level bartending. All you need is a handful of fresh ingredients, a good bottle of Prosecco, and the right glass. Quick to make and a joy to serve, this cocktail shines whether it’s just for you or your whole guest list.

Single-Serve Hugo Spritz Recipe (Standard Glass)

Follow these simple steps to make a Hugo Spritz like a pro:

1. Start with the glass
   Use a large wine glass or a balloon glass to give the drink space to breathe. Add a handful of ice cubes to chill it.
2. Add mint and lime
   Place 5–6 fresh mint leaves and 2–3 thin slices of lime into the glass. Coax out the mint’s essence with a soft press, avoiding a full muddle to keep things crisp and refreshing.
3. Pour in elderflower syrup
   Add 1 oz (30 ml) of elderflower syrup. For a slightly boozier version, you can substitute with ¾ oz of elderflower liqueur like St-Germain.
4. Top with Prosecco and soda
   Pour 3 oz (90 ml) of chilled Prosecco, followed by 2 oz (60 ml) of sparkling water. Always pour gently to preserve the bubbles.
5. Give it a quick stir
   Use a cocktail stirrer or straw to gently mix the ingredients.
6. Garnish and serve
   Finish with a fresh mint sprig and a lime wheel perched on the rim for a dash of visual charm.

That’s it! In just a few steps, you’ve created a refreshing Italian aperitif that’s sure to impress.

Tip: For a lighter flavor, you can reduce the elderflower syrup slightly or use extra soda water. Want it stronger? Enhance the elegance with a touch of gin—just enough to round out the floral notes.

Tools and Glassware You Need for Preparation

The Hugo Spritz doesn’t require a full bar setup, but the right tools and presentation do make a difference. Here’s what helps bring it all together:

Tool/Glassware	Why It’s Important
Large wine glass	Allows ingredients to mix evenly and aromas to open up
Bar spoon or straw	Gently stirs the drink without killing the fizz
Jigger or shot glass	Helps measure ingredients accurately
Ice cube tray	Larger cubes melt slower and keep the drink colder
Citrus knife	For slicing lime with precision

Looking for inspiration? Try our quick yogurt smoothie to cool down before or after your cocktail hour.

Whether you’re prepping one glass or mixing for guests, this elegant cocktail proves that a few fresh ingredients and the right glass can deliver five-star flavor right at home.

Variations of the Hugo Spritz Recipe

Whether you’re skipping alcohol entirely or serving guests of all ages, you don’t have to miss out on the charm of a Hugo Spritz. The classic flavor—floral, minty, fizzy, and citrusy—translates beautifully into non-alcoholic Hugo Spritz mocktails that are just as refreshing and festive as the original.

Let’s explore some vibrant, guilt-free alternatives that keep all the flavor, sparkle, and flair without a drop of alcohol.

1. The Classic Hugo Mocktail

This version keeps things true to the original Hugo spirit—just minus the booze.

You’ll need:

• 1 oz elderflower syrup
• 3 oz sparkling water or club soda
• Fresh mint leaves (5–6)
• 2–3 thin lime slices
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

Begin by layering crisp ice cubes into a wide wine glass to chill the base. Add the mint and lime, lightly pressing the mint to release aroma. Pour in elderflower syrup, top with sparkling water, stir gently, and garnish with an extra sprig of mint.

Why It Works:

The elderflower syrup provides delicate floral sweetness, mint adds garden-fresh notes, and sparkling water keeps things light and bubbly. It’s everything you love about the original Hugo—just without the alcohol.

Creative Hugo Spritz-Inspired Mocktail Twists

Want to shake things up? Try these non-alcoholic Hugo-style variations that bring extra flavor and flair while keeping the recipe fun and family-friendly.

2. Cucumber Mint Cooler

Add 2–3 thin cucumber ribbons with the mint and lime. The cucumber brings a spa-like freshness that pairs perfectly with elderflower.

3. Berry Bliss Hugo

Drop a few fresh raspberries or blueberries into the glass. As they soak, they infuse the drink with soft berry notes and a pop of color.

4. Citrus Garden Hugo

Switch things up with lemon, orange, or a zesty mix of both in place of lime. Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme to the glass for a herbal upgrade.

5. Sparkling Apple Elderflower Spritz

Use a 50/50 mix of sparkling apple juice and soda water instead of plain sparkling water. The apple brings gentle sweetness and depth.

Looking for a fruity companion? Try our blueberry yogurt smoothie—a perfect pairing for a backyard brunch.

Hosting Tip: Make It a Spritz Bar

If you’re entertaining, set up a Hugo Mocktail Bar with elderflower syrup, mint, citrus slices, berries, sparkling water, and fun glassware. Guests can mix their own personalized spritzes—no alcohol needed to make it special.

These Hugo Spritz variations prove that you don’t need alcohol to make something beautiful, flavorful, and party-ready. Whether you’re toasting with friends, family, or just treating yourself to a mid-day refresher, these non-alcoholic options deliver full flavor and zero compromise.

Choosing the Best Sparkling Base for a Non-Alcoholic Hugo Spritz

Top Non-Alcoholic Substitutes for Prosecco

In the classic Hugo Spritz recipe, Prosecco plays a key role in adding fizz, crispness, and dry balance. But if you’re making a non-alcoholic version, don’t worry—there are plenty of sparkling options that give you the same refreshing feel without any alcohol content.

Here are some of the best bubbly bases to use in your alcohol-free Hugo Spritz:

Sparkling Alternative	Why It Works
Club soda	Clean and neutral, lets the elderflower shine
Sparkling mineral water	Adds a naturally crisp, mineral finish
Sparkling apple juice	Slightly sweet with gentle fruity notes
Non-alcoholic sparkling wine	Offers the body of wine without the alcohol
Lemon sparkling water	Adds citrus zip and balances the sweetness

Each of these options can elevate your drink in a different way. Want something subtle and dry? Go with club soda or mineral water. Looking for a touch of sweetness? Sparkling apple juice is your best bet. Hosting guests? A quality alcohol-free sparkling wine brings elegance to every pour.

Check out our fruit-forward smoothie idea for another naturally sweet refreshment to pair with your spritz.

Balancing Bubbles with Sweetness and Flavor

When choosing your sparkling base, think about balance. Elderflower syrup brings soft floral sweetness to your Hugo, so your bubbly base should either highlight or temper it.

Here’s how to find the right fit:

• For a light and dry flavor: Use club soda or mineral water. This is ideal if you want a more traditional taste and less sweetness.
• For a fruitier twist: Use sparkling apple or pear juice to add subtle complexity. It’s a great fit for brunch or garden parties.
• For citrus lovers: Lemon or lime-flavored sparkling water adds zip without overpowering the elderflower.

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s well chilled. Cold bubbles lift the aroma of mint and lime, creating a more refreshing experience from the very first sip.

Want to explore more citrus ideas? Don’t miss our zesty pancake recipe that complements Hugo Mocktails beautifully.

With the right sparkling base, you can craft a non-alcoholic Hugo Spritz that’s just as delightful, elegant, and effervescent as the original. It’s all about finding your flavor balance—and letting those bubbles do the talking.

Serving and Pairing Hugo Spritz

How to Serve Hugo Spritz – Glass vs. Pitcher

When it comes to presentation, the Hugo Spritz recipe is as visually appealing as it is refreshing. Whether you’re mixing a single glass for yourself or preparing a pitcher for guests, presentation makes all the difference.

Single Serve: Elegant and Effortless

The most common way to serve a Hugo Spritz is in a large wine glass or stemmed balloon glass. These allow enough room for ice, herbs, and bubbles to swirl freely—enhancing both aroma and taste. As Serious Eats notes, the right glassware isn’t just about aesthetics—it plays a key role in aroma and balance, especially in light, herbaceous cocktails like the Hugo. Add a few thin lime wheels and a sprig of mint on top for a photo-worthy finish.

Switch out the lime for a slice of orange or lemon to give your drink a vibrant citrus upgrade.

A single glass version is ideal for relaxing on the patio, accompanying lunch, or winding down in the evening.

Pitcher Style: Perfect for Entertaining

Hosting brunch or a summer get-together? A pitcher of non-alcoholic Hugo Spritz is the way to go. It’s crowd-pleasing, easy to make in batches, and lets guests help themselves.

Here’s a basic formula to scale your drink:

Ingredient	Pitcher (Serves 4–6)
Elderflower syrup	½ cup (120 ml)
Sparkling water	3 cups (720 ml)
Fresh mint leaves	20–25 leaves
Lime slices	1–2 limes, thinly sliced
Ice cubes	As needed

Add the syrup, mint, and lime to the pitcher first. Fill it halfway with ice. Then pour in the sparkling water and stir gently. Garnish with additional mint on top, and you’re ready to serve.

Looking for brunch food ideas to serve with it? Check out our chorizo breakfast burrito recipe—spicy meets refreshing.

Perfect Food Pairings for Hugo Spritz

The light, floral, and citrusy notes of a Hugo Spritz mocktail pair beautifully with a wide variety of foods—especially dishes that are crisp, fresh, or herb-forward.

Here are some excellent pairings:

1. Light Salads & Summer Greens

Think arugula with citrus vinaigrette, mixed greens with feta and cucumber, or a basil-tomato caprese. Mint and elderflower bring out the best in crisp, herb-laced dishes and leafy greens. According to Healthline, these greens aren’t just flavorful—they’re also packed with nutrients that make them a perfect partner for fresh, floral mocktails like the Hugo Spritz.

2. Fruit-Based Dishes

Serve alongside juicy melon, ripe berries, or a vibrant bowl of fresh-cut fruit. These accent the natural sweetness of the drink without overpowering it.

3. Cheese Boards

Soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie are perfect companions. Add some crackers, honey, and a handful of grapes for an easy afternoon snack.

4. Light Pastries & Muffins

For brunch, buttery croissants, lemon muffins, or even scones work beautifully. The Hugo adds sparkle without stealing the show.

Don’t miss our blueberry yogurt smoothie recipe**—it’s another light and fresh option that fits perfectly with a Hugo-themed brunch.

Serving style and pairings are what elevate your Hugo Spritz experience from simple refreshment to something truly memorable. With the right glassware, fresh garnishes, and a thoughtful pairing, this alcohol-free drink becomes the star of any table.

Hugo Spritz vs. Other Spritz Cocktails

Hugo Spritz vs. Aperol Spritz – Which One’s the Better Choice?

When people think of spritz cocktails, the Aperol Spritz often comes to mind. But while it’s iconic, the Hugo Spritz recipe offers a completely different experience—especially for those looking for a softer, alcohol-free option.

Let’s break down how they compare:

Feature	Hugo Spritz (Non-Alcoholic)	Aperol Spritz (Classic)
Flavor	Floral, minty, citrusy	Bitter-orange, herbal, slightly sweet
Color	Pale gold with green and lime hues	Bright orange-red
Sweetness Level	Lightly sweet from elderflower syrup	Moderately sweet with a bitter finish
Alcohol Content	0% (when using sparkling water or juice)	Typically ~11% ABV
Crowd Appeal	Kid-friendly, refreshing, low bitterness	Adults only, bold and bitter-forward

The Hugo Spritz mocktail stands out for its wide appeal. It skips the bold bitterness of Aperol and focuses instead on soft, refreshing notes of mint and elderflower. This refreshing mocktail suits every crowd—from kid-friendly brunches and backyard celebrations to elegant, alcohol-free gatherings.

In short? If you’re looking for something crowd-friendly, subtle, and herbaceous, the Hugo wins—especially when you’re keeping things zero-proof.

Other Popular Spritz Recipes You Should Try (Without Alcohol)

The spritz format is flexible, making it easy to explore non-alcoholic variations beyond the Hugo. If you love a fizzy, fruity, or floral drink, here are a few mocktail spritzes worth experimenting with:

1. Citrus Spritz

Use lemon or blood orange sparkling water, a touch of agave syrup, and fresh thyme or rosemary. Refreshing, zesty, and beautifully aromatic.

2. Berry Basil Spritz

Combine muddled strawberries or blackberries with basil, top with club soda, and add a hint of honey. It’s fruity and slightly herbal.

3. Cucumber Mint Spritz

Thin cucumber slices and fresh mint topped with sparkling water create a clean, cooling flavor—perfect for spa days or summer picnics.

4. Grapefruit Elderflower Spritz

Combine the bold tang of grapefruit juice with delicate elderflower syrup, then finish with a bubbly splash of soda water. This mocktail brings a tart citrus punch balanced by floral sweetness.

These variations prove that you can enjoy the elegance of a spritz without any alcohol. But what sets the Hugo apart is its perfect balance: just sweet enough, with a touch of citrus and an unmistakable herbal lift from mint.

Want more light and fruity ideas? Check out our blueberry yogurt smoothie—another refreshing, alcohol-free favorite.

Whether you’re craving a floral mocktail or exploring new spritz flavors, the Hugo Spritz is a standout. It’s not just a drink—it’s an experience designed for sunshine, fresh air, and unforgettable moments.

Hugo Spritz Pitcher Recipe – Entertain with Ease

How to Make a Hugo Spritz for a Crowd

The Hugo Spritz recipe isn’t just perfect for solo sips—it also scales beautifully for brunches, parties, or any warm-weather gathering. Making a pitcher version is not only convenient, but it also delivers that same vibrant flavor and elegance with less effort. As The Kitchn explains, batching drinks ahead of time is one of the smartest ways to entertain without missing the party.

Here’s how to mix a non-alcoholic Hugo Spritz pitcher that serves 4–6 guests:

Ingredient	Pitcher Quantity (Serves 4–6)
Elderflower syrup	½ cup (120 ml)
Sparkling water	3 cups (720 ml)
Fresh mint leaves	20–25 leaves
Lime slices	1–2 limes, thinly sliced
Ice cubes	Enough to fill half the pitcher

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Layer the base: Begin by adding lime rounds and sprigs of mint to the bottom of a glass pitcher. Gently nudge the mint with a spoon to unlock its fragrance without bruising its delicate leaves.
2. Pour in the elderflower syrup: This floral base brings all the signature sweetness and aroma.
3. Add the bubbles: Pour in the sparkling water (or use lemon-flavored soda water for a citrusy lift).
4. Fill with ice: Add enough ice to chill the pitcher and keep everything crisp.
5. Stir gently: Mix the ingredients without flattening the bubbles.
6. Garnish and serve: Float a few extra lime slices and a handful of mint on top for a gorgeous finish.

Want a fruity pairing? Don’t miss our blueberry yogurt smoothie recipe—perfect for spring and summer spreads.

Pitcher Tips for Hosting Success

• Chill everything in advance: Keep your sparkling water and syrup cold so you don’t dilute the flavor with too much ice.
• Use clear glass: A transparent pitcher lets the lime, mint, and bubbles show off—visually enhancing the table.
• Customize per guest: Set out bowls of berries, citrus wedges, and herbs so guests can garnish their own spritz.

From sunny brunches to garden parties and baby showers, this pitcher-style Hugo Spritz mocktail brings effortless charm to any gathering—refreshing, visually stunning, and always a hit with guests.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Hugo Spritz Recipe