There is a new star of the European summer, and it is served in a wine glass over ice with a sprig of fresh mint. The Hugo spritz — lighter and more floral than the ubiquitous Aperol spritz — has exploded in popularity this summer, with searches for “how to make a Hugo spritz at home” spiking dramatically. As Europe bakes in a record heatwave, this refreshing elderflower cocktail has become the drink of the season. Here is how to make it and why everyone is obsessed.

What Is a Hugo Spritz?

The Hugo spritz originated in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy, near the Austrian border. Unlike the bitter, orange Aperol spritz, the Hugo is made with elderflower syrup or liqueur, prosecco, soda water and fresh mint and lime. The result is a lighter, floral, refreshing drink that is less bitter and more aromatic than its famous cousin — perfect for hot summer afternoons.

Move over Aperol. The Hugo spritz — floral, refreshing and effortlessly elegant — is the drink of Europe’s summer.

The Simple Recipe

Making a Hugo spritz at home is wonderfully easy. Fill a large wine glass with ice. Add a generous splash of elderflower liqueur or syrup (around 40ml). Pour in prosecco (around 90ml). Top with a splash of soda water. Add fresh mint leaves and a slice of lime. Stir gently and serve. The whole process takes less than a minute, and the result is a drink that tastes like a European summer holiday.

Why It’s Trending Now

The Hugo spritz’s surge in popularity reflects a broader summer trend toward lighter, more refreshing drinks. As Europe endures an extreme heatwave, the appeal of a cool, floral, not-too-sweet cocktail is obvious. Social media has amplified the trend, with the drink’s pretty appearance — pale gold with green mint — making it a favourite for sharing online.

The Spritz Culture

The spritz is more than a drink in Europe — it is a ritual, a symbol of the aperitivo hour when friends gather before dinner to relax and socialise. The tradition, rooted in Italy, has spread across the continent and beyond. The Hugo spritz is the latest expression of this beloved culture, offering a fresh alternative for those seeking something a little different from the classic Aperol.

Make It Your Own

Part of the Hugo spritz’s appeal is its versatility. Experiment with the amount of elderflower to suit your taste, add extra mint for a more herbal flavour, or use a non-alcoholic sparkling wine for an alcohol-free version. However you make it, the Hugo spritz captures the essence of a European summer — refreshing, elegant and effortlessly sociable. This summer, raise a glass to the drink everyone is talking about.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Hugo spritz?

A refreshing cocktail from northern Italy made with elderflower, prosecco, soda water, mint and lime — lighter than an Aperol spritz.

How do you make a Hugo spritz?

Combine elderflower liqueur, prosecco and soda water over ice, then add fresh mint and lime.

Why is the Hugo spritz trending?

Its light, floral, refreshing taste makes it perfect for the hot summer, and its pretty appearance is popular on social media.

Key Takeaways

  • The Hugo spritz has exploded in popularity across Europe this summer.
  • It is made with elderflower, prosecco, soda, mint and lime — lighter than an Aperol spritz.
  • The simple recipe takes less than a minute to make at home.
  • It reflects a broader trend toward lighter, refreshing summer drinks.