This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Hugo Cocktail – Elderflower flavored Prosecco Drink, this is more than a cocktail, it is a sensory escape.
What is Hugo Cocktail?
On a trip to Italy last summer, I discovered this amazing cocktail at a small restaurant in Rome and I have been making it ever since.
All you need is to get your hands on some Elderflower syrup, Prosecco, ice, fresh mint and a citrus slice.
This cocktail was or originally created in the South Tyrol region of Italy, but if is widely popular throughout Europe.
It reminds me of Mojito, although it is lighter, sweeter and more flavorful.
How to make Hugo Spritz Cocktail?
Elderflower Syrup
Elderflower syrup – the Hugo’s defining ingredient, is made from the flowers of the elderberry plant.
This syrup imparts a sweet, floral flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispness of Prosecco and the freshness of mint.
It’s this ingredient that elevates the Hugo from a simple sparkling cocktail to an elegant, sophisticated sip.
Ingredients:
- Ice
- Elderflower Syrup – just elderflower flavored sugar syrup, available at some grocery stores, specialty or liquor stores
- Fresh mint leaves
- Prosecco – any type of sparkling wine will work, but dry Prosecco is just perfect for this type of cocktails
- Sparkling water
- A slice of lemon or lime for extra flavor and garnishing
- Optional – add some cranberries for a festive holiday version
Directions:
- Optional step, you may decide to skip it: Add mint to a wine glass and muddle to release flavor.
- Next add the ice, Elderflower syrup and top with Prosecco and sparkling water.
- Garnish with lime slice and more mint leaves.
- Serve immediately.
Recipe Tips
- Non alcoholic version – skip the Prosecco and add more sparkling water or even Sprite for a Hugo Mocktail.
- Fruit – you can always add berries like strawberries and blueberries to this cocktail or experiment with slices of orange or grapefruit. I’ve also tried it with fresh cranberries, while they don’t add a ton of flavor, they create an extra festive drink.
- St Germain Elderflower Liqueur – it has been pretty hard to find this liqueur where I currently live in Europe. If you get your hands on it, try to add some to the drink, or substitute the elderflower syrup with elderflower liqueur for a boozier cocktail.
- Quality of the ingredients – as with any recipe, the higher the quality of the ingredients, the better.
- Chill – chilling the ingredients before you make the cocktail will keep the drink refreshing for a little longer.
Food Pairing
The Hugo cocktail, with its light, refreshing, and floral notes from the elderflower syrup, pairs well with a variety of foods, making it a versatile choice for many occasions.
When pairing foods with the Hugo cocktail, the key is to opt for dishes that are not too heavy or overpowering, to maintain the balance and allow the delicate flavors of the cocktail to shine through. Light, fresh, and subtly flavored dishes work best to complement the refreshing and aromatic qualities of the Hugo.
Here are some pairing ideas:
- Cheese Platters – cheese and meat trays pair great with sparkling wine cocktails like this elderflower one.
- Fruit Skewers – try these Fruit Kebabs, made with strawberries, pineapple and grapes.
- Bruschetta – a classic tomato bruschetta or a fancier one would be a good option.
- Seafood – this light grilled octopus or baked breaded shrimp complement the floral notes of the drink.
- Salads – try this Lamb’s Lettuce Salad or Fig Salad for a light summer meal with a glass of this bubbly cocktail.
- Try this Baked Split Chicken Breast or Air Fryer Vegetables. They pair nicely with the cocktail’s refreshing profile.
- Dessert Pairings – try it with Blood Orange Sorbet or Strawberry Sorbet.
More Cocktail Recipes:
This Hugo Drink is perfect for summer! Make it for a celebration or simply sip on it by the pool.
Hugo Cocktail
Ingredients
- 4 ice cubes
- 6 mint leaves + more for garnishing
- 30 ml Elderflower syrup
- 150 ml Prosecco
- Sparkling water, add to your taste
- Citrus round, I used lime
Instructions
- Optional step, you may decide to skip it: Add mint to a wine glass and muddle to release flavor.
- Next add the ice, Elderflower syrup and top with Prosecco and sparkling water.
- Garnish with lime slice and more mint leaves.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Delicious 😋