This Rustic Joyful Hugo Spritz is an elegant, floral-forward cocktail perfect for warm evenings or brunch with friends. Effervescent French for Water rosé pairs beautifully with sweet elderflower liqueur and bright lime, all served over ice and garnished with mint and citrus. It’s a simple yet luxurious drink that feels like a celebration in every sip.
Whether you’re serving it at a garden party or enjoying it solo with a good book, this spritz brings charm and refreshment with very little effort. The fresh mint and lime make it fragrant and zesty, and the sparkling rosé keeps it lively and light. It’s as pretty as it is delicious.
French for Water is made from grapes sustainably grown in the hottest, driest part of Washington State. The Wahluke Slope sits on an alluvial fan, a triangular deposit made of gravel, sand, and silt which creates the perfect mix for growing intensely stunning fruit!
For 25% off your order at frenchforwater.com, use the promo code FFWSPRINGSALE25. Plus, shipping is free for case purchases! Drink responsibly and enjoy!
Spritz It Your Way: Fun Twists & Tasty Pairings for the Hugo Spritz
One of the best things about a Hugo Spritz is how effortlessly it adapts to your vibe. Want to switch it up? Try prosecco instead of sparkling rosé, add a splash of soda water for extra fizz, or muddle in fresh berries for a fruity twist. You can even freeze mint leaves in ice cubes for a charming and cooling touch.
Serving a crowd? This cocktail pairs beautifully with light bites like herbed goat cheese crostini, prosciutto-wrapped melon, or a fresh garden salad. Whether it’s brunch with friends or a golden-hour patio hang, the Hugo Spritz is your go-to for stylish, no-fuss refreshment.
A Little History: The Origins of the Hugo Spritz
The Hugo Spritz originated in the South Tyrol region of Northern Italy in the early 2000s. Created by bartender Roland Gruber as a lighter alternative to the classic Aperol Spritz, it quickly gained popularity for its floral, herbal, and citrusy profile. Traditionally made with elderflower syrup, prosecco, mint, and soda water, the Hugo is now a European summer staple—and has found fans around the world thanks to its breezy, refreshing charm.
More Recipes from Rustic Joyful Food
If you loved this Rustic Joyful Hugo Spritz recipe, you’ll love any of these equally delicious options!
- Strawberry Jalapeño Margarita Batch Cocktail
- Florescence Chocolate Orange Martini
- Mandarin Squeezed Juice Vodka Sunrise
Purchase Books by Danielle Kartes of Rustic Joyful Food from these booksellers:
Rustic Joyful Hugo Spritz
Equipment
- 2 stemmed wine glasses (12-ounce capacity)
- Citrus juicer
- Jigger or shot glass
- Bar spoon (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 cup ice 1/2 cup per glass
- 2 ounces St. Germain or other elderflower liqueur
- Juice of half a lime divided
- 12 ounces sparkling rosé divided
- Fresh mint for garnish
- Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Add 1/2 cup of ice to each wine glass.
- Pour 1 ounce of elderflower liqueur into each glass.
- Squeeze in juice from half a lime, divided between the two glasses.
- Top each with 6 ounces of sparkling rosé.
- Garnish generously with fresh mint and a lime wedge.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!