A star summer aperitif, the Hugo Spritz cocktail offers a refreshing twist thanks to its elderflower liqueur. With its floral sweetness and sparkling character, it has established itself as a must-have on terraces and for shared moments.
Discover how this recent cocktail, born from a bold idea, has quickly conquered glasses all over the world!
Where does the Hugo Spritz cocktail come from?
The Hugo Spritz cocktail was created in 2005 in the Alpine pastures of South Tyrol, in northern Italy. The creator of the recipe is Roland Gruber. He wanted to create an alternative to the classic Aperol Spritz.
Roland Gruber then had the idea of mixing Prosecco, the famous Italian sparkling wine, and sparkling water with elderflower liqueur. Elderflower is the central ingredient of the cocktail.
His aim : to create a drink that was lighter and more refreshing than the Aperol Spritz.
Why this name ? There is no specific reason. He opted for the German name Hugo, which is both short and catchy.
Growing popularity : this cocktail quickly won over the Italians and then the whole world with its simplicity and authentic flavour.
In 2018, it reached the height of its popularity in Austria, Bavaria and other European countries.
Although it only recently made its debut in France, the Hugo has quickly become a staple on Parisian terraces, in trendy bars and at luxury hotels. It appeals to bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike thanks to its simplicity and the speed with which it can be made.
Hugo Spritz vs Saint-Germain Spritz: what are the differences?
Are you wondering what the difference is between a Hugo Spritz and a Saint-Germain Spritz? These two refreshing cocktails both use prosecco and sparkling water as their base, but they differ in the elderflower liqueur they contain.
- Hugo Spritz: This iconic cocktail, created in 2005, is made with elderflower liqueur (such as Briottet Elderflower Liqueur), prosecco and sparkling water, often garnished with fresh mint and lime.
- Saint-Germain Spritz: This cocktail uses St-Germain liqueur, a brand of elderflower liqueur launched in 2007 and owned by the Bacardi group. Although the recipe is similar, the name ‘Saint-Germain’ is a registered trademark, and the brand drew heavily on the success of the Hugo Spritz to create its own version.
In short, the Saint-Germain Spritz is a marketing spin-off of the Hugo Spritz, but both are based on the same elderflower liqueur. For an authentic, artisanal taste, opt for a traditional elderflower liqueur such as Briottet’s! 🌿✨
Elderflower liqueur: the key ingredient in the Hugo Spritz cocktail
A liqueur made popular by the Hugo cocktail
The Hugo Spritz cocktail has literally put elderflower liqueur on the map. Before the cocktail’s emergence, very few distilleries offered this flavour of liqueur. Now, almost every liqueur producer offers their own version of the recipe.
Elderflower liqueur: a complex flavour profile
When we talk about elderflower liqueur, we are actually referring to elderflower blossom liqueur. Indeed, it is the blossom that gives it such a complex flavour profile. In terms of taste notes, there are hints of citrus and even lychee.
How to serve the Hugo Spritz cocktail?
The glass for the Hugo cocktail
Traditionally, the Hugo cocktail is served in a large wine glass or a tall balloon glass. It is best enjoyed very chilled with plenty of ice cubes.
French version of the Hugo cocktail
Although it is originally made with Prosecco, you can easily replace the Italian sparkling wine with Crémant de Bourgogne.
Garnish for the Hugo cocktail
For the garnish (i.e. the decoration on the glass), you could opt for a few mint leaves and a slice of lemon. A garnish that is as attractive as it is flavourful, it balances the cocktail perfectly.
Accompaniments for the Hugo cocktail
As an accompaniment, you could serve some light appetisers: olives, crackers, tapenade, or even fresh fruit (strawberries, watermelon). For a more indulgent version, why not try some Epoisses cheese and crème de cassis on toast?
Now it’s your turn! Make your Hugo Spritz, settle down on the terrace, and savour every sip of this quintessential summer cocktail. 🍹