Hugo Spritz Cocktail: A Refreshing Twist on Classic Summer Drinks

#ERROR!

Ingredients:

• 3 oz Prosecco
• 2 oz elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain)
• 1 oz soda water
• Fresh mint leaves (about 5-6 leaves)
• 1 lime (cut into wedges)
• Ice cubes
• Optional: additional mint sprigs and lime slices for garnish

Preparing the Ingredients

1. **Gather Your Ingredients**: Start by collecting all the ingredients listed above. Make sure you have a clean workspace and all your tools ready. You’ll need a cocktail shaker or a large glass, a stirring spoon, and a glass for serving. 2. **Prepare the Mint**: Take about 5-6 fresh mint leaves and gently rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This will help release their aromatic oils when muddled. 3. **Cut the Lime**: Take your lime and cut it into wedges. You’ll need a couple of wedges for the cocktail and possibly an extra slice for garnish.

Mixing the Cocktail

4. **Muddle the Mint and Lime**: In your cocktail shaker or a large glass, add the mint leaves and 2 lime wedges. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently press down on the mint and lime to release their juices and oils. Be careful not to shred the mint too much; you just want to release the flavors. 5. **Add the Elderflower Liqueur**: Pour in 2 oz of elderflower liqueur over the muddled mint and lime. This sweet and floral liqueur is the star of the Hugo Spritz, so make sure to use a good quality one. 6. **Add Ice**: Fill the shaker or glass with ice cubes. This will chill the mixture and prepare it for the next step. 7. **Pour in the Prosecco**: Carefully pour 3 oz of Prosecco over the ice. The bubbles will mix with the elderflower liqueur and mint, creating a refreshing base for your cocktail. 8. **Top with Soda Water**: Finally, add 1 oz of soda water to the mixture. This will give your cocktail a light and effervescent finish. 9. **Stir Gently**: Using a long spoon or a straw, gently stir the mixture to combine all the ingredients. Be careful not to stir too vigorously, as you don’t want to lose the bubbles from the Prosecco.

Serving the Cocktail

10. **Prepare Your Glass**: Choose a large wine glass or a highball glass for serving. If you like, you can chill the glass in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring in the cocktail. 11. **Strain the Mixture (Optional)**: If you prefer a smoother drink without bits of mint or lime, you can strain the mixture into your glass using a fine mesh strainer. However, I love the rustic look and flavor that the muddled ingredients add, so I usually skip this step. 12. **Garnish**: Add a few fresh mint sprigs and a lime slice to the top of your cocktail for a beautiful presentation. This not only looks great but also enhances the aroma as you sip. 13. **Enjoy**: Take a moment to admire your creation before diving in. The Hugo Spritz is best enjoyed fresh, so sip it slowly and savor the refreshing flavors.

Tips for the Perfect Hugo Spritz

14. **Choose Quality Ingredients**: The quality of your Prosecco and elderflower liqueur will significantly impact the flavor of your cocktail. Opt for a dry Prosecco to balance the sweetness of the elderflower. 15. **Experiment with Flavors**: Feel free to experiment with additional flavors. You can add a splash of fresh fruit juice, like grapefruit or lemon, for a twist. Some people even like to add a few slices of cucumber for a refreshing touch. 16. **Adjust Sweetness**: If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, you can increase the amount of elderflower liqueur. Conversely, if you like it less sweet, reduce the liqueur and add more soda water. 17. **Make a Pitcher**: If you’re hosting a gathering, consider making a pitcher of Hugo Spritz. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, muddle the mint and lime in a large pitcher, and then add the Prosecco and soda water just before serving to keep the bubbles intact. 18. **Chill Your Ingredients**: For the best experience, make sure your Pro

Conclusion:

In summary, the Hugo Spritz cocktail is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their beverage game. This refreshing drink, with its perfect balance of elderflower liqueur, sparkling wine, and fresh mint, is not only a delight to the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re hosting a summer garden party, enjoying a cozy evening with friends, or simply treating yourself after a long day, the Hugo Spritz is the ideal companion. For serving suggestions, consider garnishing your cocktail with a slice of lime or a few extra mint leaves for that extra pop of color and flavor. You can also experiment with variations by swapping out the sparkling wine for prosecco or adding a splash of soda water for a lighter version. If you’re feeling adventurous, try infusing the drink with seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a unique twist. I encourage you to give this delightful cocktail a try and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, I’d love to hear how your Hugo Spritz turns out! So grab your ingredients, mix up a batch, and let the refreshing flavors transport you to a sun-soaked terrace. Cheers!

Print