Hugo Spritz Drink Challenges Aperol Spritz Popularity in Summer 2024

The Hugo Spritz, made with Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, and mint, is a new summer drink choice. It offers a lighter, floral taste compared to the bittersweet Aperol Spritz.
By Newsroom | Food & Drink, Lifestyle |

The Hugo Spritz, a drink purportedly originating in Northern Italy in the early 2000s, is emerging as a popular summer beverage, drawing attention for its departure from the more established, bittersweet profile of the Aperol Spritz. This effervescent cocktail features Prosecco, elderflower liqueur (often St-Germain), soda water, and mint, with lime sometimes added. Its composition results in a drink characterized by a light, floral sweetness and herbaceous notes, a stark contrast to the bittersweet citrus flavor synonymous with the Aperol Spritz.

Put away the Aperol and raise a glass to Hugo spritz, the drink of the summer - 1

The core distinction lies in the flavor profiles: Aperol Spritz offers a bittersweet citrus taste, while the Hugo Spritz presents a sweeter, floral, and herbaceous experience. This divergence is leading some to opt for the Hugo Spritz as a refreshing alternative, particularly for those who find the Aperol Spritz too bitter or are seeking a change in their summer drink repertoire. The ingredients—specifically the elderflower liqueur and mint—contribute to its unique character.

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Put away the Aperol and raise a glass to Hugo spritz, the drink of the summer - 2

Crafting the Hugo Spritz

Making a Hugo Spritz typically involves combining approximately 4 ounces of Prosecco with 1 ounce of soda water and 0.5 ounces of elderflower liqueur. It is then garnished with mint sprigs and, optionally, a lime wheel. The soda water adds volume and bubbles without increasing the alcohol content, a consideration for those mindful of their beverage's strength. The mint provides an herbaceous, cooling element, which, combined with the floral notes of the elderflower liqueur and the tartness of lime, creates a balanced sweetness.

Put away the Aperol and raise a glass to Hugo spritz, the drink of the summer - 3

A European Favorite Finds Its Footing

While the Aperol Spritz has long held a prominent place in summer refreshment, the Hugo Spritz, sometimes referred to as the St-Germain Spritz, has gained significant traction, particularly in Europe. Reports suggest it is a well-known cocktail in Europe, and its increasing visibility, amplified by mentions on platforms like TikTok, indicates a growing presence beyond its regional origins. This modern classic, a contemporary to the Aperol Spritz, is presented as an accessible option for home bartenders looking to expand their cocktail knowledge.

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Contrasting Spritz Traditions

The Aperol Spritz, a more established fixture, is often prepared using a simple 3-2-1 ratio: three parts Prosecco, two parts Aperol, and one part soda water. Its appeal is rooted in its bittersweet, citrus-forward flavor. In contrast, the Hugo Spritz substitutes the distinct, orange-hued Aperol for elderflower liqueur, fundamentally altering the drink's flavor architecture. This shift caters to a preference for sweeter, more floral, and subtly herbaceous beverages, positioning it as a distinct choice rather than a mere variation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Hugo Spritz and why is it becoming popular?
The Hugo Spritz is a summer cocktail made with Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, soda water, and mint. It is becoming popular because it offers a lighter, floral, and sweet taste that many people prefer over the bittersweet Aperol Spritz.
Q: How is the Hugo Spritz different from the Aperol Spritz?
The main difference is the taste. The Aperol Spritz is bittersweet and citrusy, while the Hugo Spritz is sweet, floral, and herbaceous due to its use of elderflower liqueur and mint instead of Aperol.
Q: What are the main ingredients in a Hugo Spritz?
A Hugo Spritz is typically made with about 4 ounces of Prosecco, 1 ounce of soda water, and 0.5 ounces of elderflower liqueur. It is garnished with mint sprigs and sometimes a slice of lime.
Q: Where did the Hugo Spritz originate and is it popular in Europe?
The Hugo Spritz is believed to have started in Northern Italy in the early 2000s. It is a well-known drink in Europe and is gaining more attention globally, partly due to social media.
Q: Who might prefer the Hugo Spritz over the Aperol Spritz?
People who find the Aperol Spritz too bitter or who enjoy sweeter, floral, and herb-like flavors are likely to prefer the Hugo Spritz. It's a refreshing option for those seeking a change.