Hugo Spritz
The first time I had a Hugo Spritz (pronounced ‘Ugo’ by Italians) was when Gary and I were sitting in Piazza della Repubblica in Foligno. It was in July 2019 and the day was beautiful. When we sat to have an apertivo at about 6:00 pm at our usual bar, I glanced over to the table next to us. A woman had a wine glass filled with something clear and bubbly and lots of what looked like mint leaves. I was considering a change that day rather than ordering my usual Aperol Spritz.
I asked the waitress for “one of those” pointing to the woman’s drink. She shook her head in acknowledgment of what I wanted to order. Then I asked her “come si chiama, questa?” (what is it called?) – pointing to her drink. She then replied “Ugo.”
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What is a Hugo Spritz?
The Hugo is a slightly alcoholic aperitif, originating in northern Italy in the South Tyrol region, but widespread in Austria and Switzerland. The recipe is based on prosecco, elderflower syrup, seltzer, and mint leaves. It is light and not overly alcoholic. The famous Aperol Spritz has about 117 calories in it while the Hugo boasts about 160 calories for a single glass.
How was the Hugo Spritz Invented?
In 2005, bar owner, Roland Gruber created an alternative spritz cocktail at his bar in the small northern town of Naturno, Italy. This small town is located just south of the Austrian border. His creation was inspired by the Elder trees that grow abundantly in the Alps.
Both these books beautifully capture the essence of Italy, its people, and the strong sense of community that defines life in small Italian towns. With lyrical prose and reflections, Ilene & Gary invite readers to accompany them on a journey of self-discovery and transformation in the heart of Tuscany.
What is Elderflower?
The elderflower is a flower that blooms on the Elder tree, which also produces berries called elderberries, which are often used for their medicinal properties. Elderflower became popular when Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s wedding cake combined the flavors of lemon and elderflower.
Hugo Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ ounce Elderflower Liqueur (15mL)
- 4 ounces Prosecco (120mL)
- 1 ounce Soda Water (30mL)
- A few fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Gently muddle (crush to release the flavor oils) a few mint leaves and add to a stemmed wine glass
- Add the elderflower liqueur
- Add plenty of ice to the glass
- Top with prosecco and a dash of soda
- Stir
- Garnish with a lime or lemon slice and a few mint sprigs
If you try it, let us know what you think!
Hello Ilene, I just read your post, but I would really like the recipe for the Aperol Spritz. Is it possible for you to give it to me? I’m not a big fan of mint, although I would certainly try it if I were in Italy. Thanks, Shari Klarich
Hi Shari! Just type “Aperol” in the search bar or here is the link. It is my favorite and easily recognizable by the bright orange color! https://ouritalianjourney.com/whats-a-spritz-how-its-made/
Hi Ilene! Now you made me thirsty!!! We tried the Hugo on our last day in Italy in May 2019. We were sitting in a bar in Monopoli and just had to try it. There were other Spritzes to choose from but this one was calling us! I had posted a picture of it on Facebook and you had commented that you had to give it a try…..can’t go wrong with any Spritz in Italy! Maybe that should be our mission on our next visit!!!! Thanks for sharing!
How funny Pat! At least we know I tried it after seeing your photo. Maybe that provoked me – who knows but they are so refreshing. I had no idea Ikea has the syrup and will have to look next time I venture into the store! Thank you so much for the comment!!