The Hugo Spritz makes for a zippy update to your classic Spritz, showcasing the sweet, floral and honeyed flavours of elderflower. It’s an uncomplicated cocktail that allows each of its ingredients to do the talking. And, like all Spritzes, it’s a perfect aperitivo for warmer weather – it’s no wonder this drink has become such a go-to across Europe over the northern summer.
The ‘Spritz’, generally speaking, is a kind of cocktail made popular in northern Italy, particularly in the area around Venice. The style dates back to the 19th century when vast swathes of Europe were ruled by the Austro-Hungarian Empire, including northern Italy. The soldiers who came south from Austria to Italy found the local white wine to be far stronger than the beer they were used to back home, so they were forced to dilute the wine using bubbly water. The result? A refreshing drink known as the ‘spritzer’.
The Hugo Spritz, or the elderflower spritz, is a fantastic cocktail for anyone who has fallen in love with the Aperol Spritz and wants to explore the Spritz category further. But where the Aperol Spritz tends to be bitter, the Hugo Spritz is far more floral, tasting like pure springtime. The prosecco and soda water brings fruitiness and a bubbly lift, while the gin’s botanicals complement the elderflower’s floral notes.
