As the mercury rises and the days grow longer, the search for the perfect summer drink begins. Each year, a particular beverage tends to capture the zeitgeist, becoming the drink of the summer.

In 2020, we had the Aperol Spritz as the drink of the summer. The espresso martini craze of summer 2021 followed. And last year, we had the Dirty Shirley. But according to some social media, a new contender has entered the ring this summer: the Hugo Spritz.

Whether it ends up being the drink of summer 2023 officially, or just unofficially, this refreshing cocktail is not just a drink; it’s a passport to European summer. While it’s not a new drink, it’s been a classic Italian drink for years, it’s new to many around the world. So let me introduce you to the Hugo Spritz, drink of the summer 2023.

What is the Hugo Spritz?

The Hugo Spritz is a refreshing cocktail that marries St. Germain, a French elderflower-based liqueur, with sparkling wine and soda water. It’s traditionally garnished with a mint sprig and lemon slice, but any refreshing garnish works, like cucumber or even fresh celery.

This simple, low-alcohol cocktail has seen a massive jump in search volume which continues to increase as summer approaches.

Why the Hugo Spritz?

The Hugo Spritz checks all the boxes for a perfect summer drink. It’s cold and refreshing, making it ideal for sipping on a hot summer day. Its low alcohol content means you can enjoy a few without feeling overwhelmed. And perhaps most importantly, it’s universally beloved. The combination of floral St. Germain (or another elderflower liquer), crisp sparkling wine, and fizzy soda water creates a balanced and refreshing drink that’s hard to resist.

And you know, us Italians know how to put together a summer cocktail 😉

The Hugo Spritz: A Taste of European Summer

One of the reasons the Hugo Spritz is so appealing is that it embodies the spirit of a European summer. Imagine sitting at a café in Italy, watching the world go by as you sip your Hugo Spritz. Or picture yourself at a beachside bar in Spain, the Hugo Spritz in your hand providing a refreshing contrast to the warm summer sun. Even if you’re not able to travel this summer, the Hugo Spritz can transport you to these idyllic settings.

How to Make a Hugo Spritz

Making a Hugo Spritz is easy. All you need is St. Germain, sparkling wine, soda water, and your choice of garnish. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 part St. Germain
• 2 parts sparkling wine
• 2 parts soda water
• Mint sprig and lemon slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a wine glass with ice.
2. Add the St. Germain, followed by the sparkling wine.
3. Top with soda water and stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of lemon.

Enjoy your Hugo Spritz while lounging by the pool, hosting a summer barbecue, or simply relaxing on a warm summer evening. It’s the perfect way to embrace the summer season.

The Verdict

While it’s hard to know what drink will win the title of “drink of the summer” for 2023 quite yet, the Hugo Spritz is a strong contender. Its refreshing flavor, low alcohol content, and universal appeal make it a favorite among both bartenders and drinkers. So, will the Hugo Spritz the official 2023 drink of the summer? We’ll let you be the judge.

But one thing’s for sure: this summer, you’ll want to have a bottle of St. Germain on hand.

A Look Back at Past Summer Drinks

As we welcome the Hugo Spritz into the summer drink hall of fame, let’s take a moment to remember the drinks of summers past. Each of these beverages captured the spirit of their respective summers, and for many of us, sipping them today will bring us right back to the summer we remembered them for.

• The Aperol Spritz: This Italian aperitivo took the world by storm in 2020. With its vibrant orange color and refreshing taste, it’s no wonder this cocktail became a summer favorite. It’s the perfect companion for a leisurely afternoon on a Milanese rooftop or a with a sunset view on the Amalfi Coast.

• The Espresso Martini: In 2021, we saw the rise of the espresso martini as the drink of the summer. This caffeinated cocktail was the perfect pick-me-up for those long summer nights. Whether you were enjoying a rainy day in Amsterdam or looking out over the monuments in Rome, the espresso martini was your faithful companion.

• The Dirty Shirley: Last year, the Dirty Shirley was a strong contender for the drink of the summer. This grown-up version of the classic Shirley Temple was a hit at summer parties. Whether you were at a rager in Thailand’s most iconic beach clubs in Koh Samui or keeping it classy at a bar in Cinque Terre, the Dirty Shirley was there to keep things fun, refreshing, and dare we say, interesting.

As we raise a glass to the Hugo Spritz, we also toast to the drinks that have come before it. Each of these beverages has left its mark on the world of cocktails, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds. Here’s to a summer of delicious drinks and good times!

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a casual drinker, the Hugo Spritz is a must-try this summer. Its refreshing flavor, easy preparation, and universal appeal make it the perfect drink for any summer occasion. So why not give it a try? You might just find your new favorite summer drink. Cheers to the summer of the Hugo Spritz, and may it transport you to the European summer of your dreams!