3-Step Refreshing Hugo Spritz Mocktail Recipe

The Hugo Spritz is a beloved European cocktail, but what if you could enjoy all its crisp, floral, and bubbly goodness—without the alcohol? This Hugo Spritz mocktail is the perfect alternative! Made with sparkling water, elderflower syrup, and white grape juice, this refreshing drink brings Mediterranean vibes to your glass. Whether you’re hosting brunch, enjoying a summer afternoon, or looking for a light and elegant drink, this recipe is sure to impress.

📸 “Close-up view of a Hugo Spritz mocktail in a clear stemmed glass, garnished with fresh mint and a lime wheel. The drink has a light golden hue with tiny sparkling bubbles rising to the surface. The glass is placed on a white marble countertop, with a small dish of elderflower syrup and a cluster of fresh mint leaves in the background. Bright natural lighting enhances the refreshing, summery feel of the scene.”

Ingredients and Preparation Steps

This easy Hugo Spritz mocktail requires just a few fresh ingredients and minimal prep. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect alcohol-free bubbly drink.

Ingredients:

• 6 sprigs fresh mint
• 6 slices lime
• 3/4 cup chilled sparkling water
• 3 cups chilled white grape juice
• 3 tbsp elderflower syrup
• Ice, as needed
• Lime wheels and additional mint, for garnish

Step 1: Muddle the Mint

First, take a 1-quart pitcher and gently muddle the fresh mint using a muddler or the back of a spoon. This step releases the natural oils, enhancing the drink’s refreshing flavor.

📸 “Close-up view of a clear glass pitcher on a white marble countertop. Inside, fresh mint leaves are being gently muddled with a wooden muddler. The mint is vibrant green, with some leaves slightly crushed, releasing their aromatic oils. A small dish of lime slices and a bottle of elderflower syrup sit in the background, softly blurred.”

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Next, add the sparkling water, white grape juice, and elderflower syrup to the pitcher. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

📸 “Close-up view of the glass pitcher now filled with golden-hued white grape juice, sparkling water, and elderflower syrup. A long-handled spoon is seen stirring the mixture, creating tiny bubbles. The bright natural lighting enhances the effervescent look of the drink, while a few scattered mint leaves float on top.”

Step 3: Serve and Garnish

Finally, fill serving glasses with ice and pour the Hugo Spritz mocktail over the top. Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh mint for a stunning presentation.

📸 “Close-up view of a Hugo Spritz mocktail in a stemmed glass, filled with ice and garnished with a fresh mint sprig and a lime wheel. Tiny bubbles cling to the sides of the glass. The drink sits on a marble countertop with a few extra lime slices and a folded linen napkin in the background.”

The Best Way to Enjoy Your Hugo Spritz Mocktail

The beauty of a Hugo Spritz mocktail is in its light and floral flavors, making it the perfect drink for spring and summer. The **bubbles add a crisp texture**, while the **elderflower syrup provides a delicate sweetness** that pairs beautifully with fresh mint and citrus.

Enjoy this drink as a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up, serve it at brunch alongside homemade cream puffs, or pair it with a light dinner like baked salmon with pecans. No matter the occasion, this drink is sure to elevate the moment! ✨

Hugo Spritz Mocktail FAQs

Can I use a different juice instead of white grape juice?

Yes! While white grape juice gives the drink a light, slightly sweet taste, you can substitute it with apple juice or pear juice for a similar effect.

What can I use instead of elderflower syrup?

If you can’t find elderflower syrup, you can use a mix of honey and a touch of orange blossom water for a floral twist.

Can I make this drink ahead of time?

It’s best to make the Hugo Spritz mocktail fresh to keep the bubbles crisp. However, you can mix everything except the sparkling water ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add the sparkling water before serving.

What food pairs well with a Hugo Spritz mocktail?

This refreshing drink pairs well with light appetizers like cranberry brie bites or a bright citrusy salad.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Hugo Spritz Mocktail

1. Use fresh ingredients. Fresh mint, lime, and high-quality elderflower syrup make a big difference in flavor.
2. Chill all ingredients beforehand. To keep the drink refreshing, refrigerate the white grape juice and sparkling water before mixing.
3. Gently muddle the mint. Avoid over-muddling, as this can make the mint taste bitter. A light press is enough to release its oils.
4. Adjust sweetness to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the elderflower syrup or add more sparkling water.
5. Experiment with variations. Try adding a splash of cucumber juice or replacing lime with lemon for a different citrus profile.
6. Use flavored sparkling water. If you want extra depth, opt for a lightly flavored sparkling water, such as lime or elderflower.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Best enjoyed fresh: This mocktail is best served immediately to preserve the carbonation and fresh mint aroma.
• Pre-mix the base: You can mix the white grape juice, elderflower syrup, and lime slices a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge. Add sparkling water just before serving.
• Store leftover mocktail: If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but expect reduced carbonation.
• Freeze for later: Pour the base mixture into ice cube trays and freeze. When ready to serve, place the flavored ice cubes in a glass and top with fresh sparkling water.

What to Serve with a Hugo Spritz Mocktail

• Light appetizers: Pair with cranberry brie bites or a fresh Caprese salad.
• Seafood dishes: This drink complements delicate seafood, such as baked salmon with pecans.
• Brunch favorites: Serve alongside cream puffs or classic waffles for a light, elegant meal.
• Refreshing desserts: Try it with fruit-based treats like pumpkin bars or a simple fruit salad.

Enjoy This Refreshing Hugo Spritz Mocktail

The Hugo Spritz mocktail is the perfect alcohol-free alternative for those who love light, bubbly, and floral flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a brunch, a summer gathering, or simply unwinding at home, this refreshing drink is sure to impress.

For a seasonal twist, try adding a splash of pomegranate juice in the winter or fresh berries in the summer. If you enjoyed this mocktail, you might also love our Shirley Temple drink, another non-alcoholic classic that’s just as delicious.

Have you tried this recipe? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you made it your own. Don’t forget to save this recipe and share it with friends!