Hugo is the latest addition to the cocktail family. It is a sparkling Prosecco with the scent of lemon balm or elderberry cordial and fresh mint. The slightly alcoholic and delicious aperitif from the region of Trentino, South Tyrol has become a cult drink in recent years.
Who invented Hugo?
In 2005, in search of a drink that women would love, Roland Gruber had the brilliant idea of adding soda to Prosecco. He also flavored it with lemon balm cordial and a few mint leaves. Mr Gruber was a bartender from the region of Trentino, South Tyrol.
At a tasting session, the creation was served to regulars as well as friends. The drink was received with surprising success. A restaurant in Naturns near Meran, where the native South Tyrolean worked, decided to add the drink to the cocktail menu as a house drink. The name came about by chance. Hugo: short, concise, not only easy to remember but also to order. Nevertheless – as Mr. Gruber often reveals in his interviews – the drink could have had a completely different name - Otto perhaps?
The original mixture
The original recipe was simple: 15 cl of chilled Prosecco, a few mint leaves, a splash of soda, and 2 cl of lemon balm cordial. While this classic remains beloved, the variation with elderflower syrup has become one of the most popular drinks over the years. Its sparkling, refreshing taste is the perfect way to unwind after a long summer day. Have you decided which version you prefer?
📖 Recipe
Hugo
Ingredients
- 15 cl Prosecco, chilled
- 2 cl elderberry syrup , or lemon balm syrup
- a couple mint leaves
- 1 freshly squeezed lemon juice, or lime juice
- 3 ice cubes
- shot sparkling mineral water, or soda water
- slice lemon, or lime for decoration of the glass or as a garnish
Instructions
- Put the ice cubes, the syrup and the mint leaves into a red wine glass. I recommend to lightly pat the mint leaves beforehand as this will activate the aroma of the herb.
- Pour freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice into the glass. Place a slice of lemon or lime in the glass and add cold Prosecco. Wait a little, then add some sparkling mineral water.
Notes
Nutrition
Cin Cin and enjoy your cocktail
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