Lazy summer afternoons call for something light, bubbly, and utterly refreshing. That’s where the Hugo cocktail comes in. This European-inspired drink combines the herbal notes of elderflower with the zest of lime and the fizz of prosecco, making it the perfect sip to cool down with under the sun.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of elderflower syrup and fresh lime juice creates a perfectly balanced sweet and tart flavor profile.
- Prosecco adds a delightful effervescence, making the cocktail light and refreshing.
- Fresh mint leaves not only add a burst of color but also a refreshing aroma that enhances the overall drinking experience.
- It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring no fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients.
- The Hugo cocktail is versatile, allowing for numerous variations to suit any palate.
Ingredients
- 1 oz elderflower syrup
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 4 oz prosecco, chilled
- 1/2 cup club soda
- 4-5 fresh mint leaves
- Lime slices and additional mint leaves for garnish
- Ice cubes
Equipment Needed
- Highball glass
- Bar spoon
- Jigger (for measuring)
Instructions
Step 1: Muddle the Mint
Place the fresh mint leaves at the bottom of your highball glass. Gently muddle them with the back of a bar spoon to release their aromatic oils. Be careful not to tear the leaves too much; you want to release the flavor without making the drink bitter.
Step 2: Add the Syrup and Lime Juice
Pour the elderflower syrup and fresh lime juice over the muddled mint. Stir gently to combine the flavors. This step ensures that the sweet and tart elements are well integrated before adding the bubbly components.
Step 3: Fill the Glass with Ice
Add a generous amount of ice cubes to the glass. The ice will chill the cocktail and dilute it slightly as it melts, making it even more refreshing.
Step 4: Top with Prosecco and Club Soda
Slowly pour the chilled prosecco over the ice, followed by the club soda. The combination of these two fizzy elements creates the signature lightness of the Hugo cocktail.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish your Hugo cocktail with a slice of lime and a sprig of fresh mint. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing burst of flavors.
Tips and Tricks
- For an extra refreshing twist, freeze some lime slices and use them as ice cubes.
- If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, reduce the amount of elderflower syrup or opt for a dry prosecco.
- Always use fresh lime juice for the best flavor; bottled juice can’t compare.
- To make a non-alcoholic version, replace the prosecco with sparkling water and add a bit more elderflower syrup.
- Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for a unique twist on the classic mint.
Recipe Variations
- Berry Hugo: Add a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries when muddling the mint for a fruity twist.
- Spicy Hugo: Include a slice of jalapeño or a dash of chili syrup for a spicy kick.
- Herbal Hugo: Swap the mint for basil or rosemary for a different herbal note.
- Tropical Hugo: Replace the lime juice with passion fruit juice for a tropical flavor.
- Winter Hugo: Use warm apple cider instead of prosecco and add a cinnamon stick for a cozy winter version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a Hugo cocktail without alcohol?
Absolutely! Simply replace the prosecco with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic sparkling wine. You might want to adjust the amount of elderflower syrup to taste, as the alcohol in prosecco can balance the sweetness.
What can I use instead of elderflower syrup?
If you can’t find elderflower syrup, a light honey syrup or a simple syrup infused with a floral tea like chamomile can work as a substitute. The flavor won’t be identical, but it will still be delicious.
How can I make my Hugo cocktail more fizzy?
For extra fizz, use more club soda or a drier prosecco. You can also stir the cocktail less to preserve more of the bubbles from the prosecco and club soda.
Summary
The Hugo cocktail is a light, refreshing drink perfect for summer days. With its blend of elderflower syrup, lime juice, prosecco, and mint, it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the many variations, the Hugo is sure to become a favorite.