On a really warm afternoon, this is the drink I reach for without even thinking twice. A Hugo Spritz feels light, bubbly, and just a little fancy, but it takes almost no effort to make. That balance is exactly why I love it.

It has this delicate floral flavor from the elderflower, fresh coolness from mint, and that cheerful sparkle from prosecco. Nothing is heavy, nothing is overpowering. It is the kind of cocktail you sip slowly while talking, laughing, or just sitting still for a minute.

I started making it at home after realizing how simple it actually is. No complicated tools, no hard-to-find ingredients. Just a handful of fresh things and a glass full of ice.

Now it has become my go-to whenever I want something refreshing that still feels special. It works for casual evenings, weekend lunches, or even when I just want to treat myself a little.

Why This Cocktail Feels So Effortless

Some drinks demand precision and attention, but this one is forgiving in the best way. You can adjust it slightly to suit your taste, and it still turns out bright and balanced. That makes it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cocktail lovers.

The Hugo Spritz is also wonderfully aromatic. The moment you muddle the mint, the glass already smells inviting. Add the prosecco, and suddenly it feels like something you would order on a sunny terrace.

It is also not overly sweet or bitter, which makes it easy to enjoy more than one. The flavors stay crisp and clean, never overwhelming your palate.

Ingredients Needed for the Recipe

• Fresh mint sprig – This brings a cooling, herbal freshness and gives the drink its signature aroma.
• Elderflower liqueur – Adds gentle floral sweetness and is what makes the cocktail feel elegant and unique.
• Prosecco – The sparkling base that provides light bubbles and a crisp, slightly fruity flavor.
• Club soda or sparkling water – Extends the drink and keeps it refreshing rather than too strong.
• Ice – Chills everything properly and keeps the flavors lively.
• Lemon or lime wheel – Adds a bright citrus finish and makes the presentation feel complete.
• Extra mint for garnish – Enhances both aroma and visual appeal.

How to make Hugo Spritz?

Step 1 – Gently Muddle the Mint

Place a fresh mint sprig into a large wine glass and pour in the elderflower liqueur. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to press the mint lightly. You want to release the oils, not shred the leaves.

Let this mixture sit for a few minutes so the floral and herbal flavors blend together. This short pause makes a noticeable difference in taste.

Step 2 – Add Ice to Build the Base

Fill the glass generously with ice. A well-chilled drink keeps the bubbles crisp and prevents it from tasting flat too quickly.

I like using larger cubes because they melt slower and keep everything nicely balanced. The glass should feel full and cold before moving on.

Step 3 – Pour in the Prosecco

Slowly add the prosecco over the ice to maintain its sparkle. Pouring gently helps preserve those lively bubbles that make the spritz feel so refreshing.

You will already notice the fragrance lifting from the glass at this point. It is light, floral, and incredibly inviting.

Step 4 – Add a Splash of Soda Water

Top the drink with club soda or sparkling water to lighten the texture. This step keeps the cocktail from becoming too wine-forward.

It also adds an extra layer of fizz, which makes every sip feel airy and clean. Stir gently to combine everything without flattening the bubbles.

Step 5 – Garnish and Finish

Add a lemon or lime wheel and a fresh sprig of mint for garnish. This final touch brightens the flavor and makes the drink look as good as it tastes.

Serve immediately while it is cold and sparkling. This is not a drink that likes to wait around.

Tips

• Use very fresh mint. Older leaves lose their aroma and can taste dull.
• Chill your prosecco beforehand so the drink stays crisp longer.
• Muddle gently. Crushing mint too hard can create bitterness.
• Choose a large wine glass so the ingredients have room to mix properly.
• Add soda water last to preserve the bubbles.
• Taste and adjust the ratio if you prefer it drier or slightly sweeter.
• Serve immediately for the best sparkle and freshness.

Easy Variations to Try

One of the nicest things about this cocktail is how adaptable it is. You can make small changes depending on what you have at home, and it still feels cohesive and refreshing.

If you want a slightly lighter version, reduce the elderflower liqueur and add more sparkling water. The drink becomes even more delicate but still keeps its floral personality.

For a citrus-forward twist, add a thin slice of lemon directly into the drink instead of just using it as garnish. It adds brightness without overpowering the elderflower.

You can also experiment with different sparkling wines if prosecco is not available. Just stick with something dry and bubbly so the overall feel remains crisp.

Some days I even add extra mint because I love that cooling sensation. It turns the drink into something that feels almost like a garden in a glass.

Serving Ideas

This cocktail shines brightest when paired with simple foods that do not compete with its light flavor. Think small bites, fresh salads, or anything with herbs and citrus.

It is especially nice before a meal as an aperitif. The bubbles and freshness wake up your palate without making you feel full.

I also love serving it during relaxed gatherings where people can help themselves. Since it comes together so quickly, you can make each glass fresh without spending the whole time mixing drinks.

Outdoor settings make it feel even more special, but honestly, it works just as well at the kitchen counter. The charm of a Hugo Spritz is that it brings that relaxed feeling wherever you are.

Once you make it a few times, it becomes second nature. A handful of ingredients, a few minutes of effort, and suddenly you have a drink that feels bright, elegant, and completely refreshing.

That is why I keep coming back to it. It is simple, unfussy, and always delivers exactly what I want from a warm-weather cocktail.