What is the Difference Between Aperol vs. Hugo Spritz?

Aperol Spritz and Hugo Spritz are two iconic Italian cocktails that have become globally recognized for their refreshing flavors and cultural significance. Although both drinks originated in Italy, they offer distinct taste experiences. Aperol Spritz leans toward a bitter-sweet flavor profile, while Hugo Spritz embraces a light, floral sweetness. This comprehensive guide explores the differences between these two cocktails, delves into their ingredients, and highlights the best times to enjoy them. Whether you favor the bold complexity of Aperol or prefer Hugo’s refreshing sweetness, this article will help you appreciate both drinks and understand what makes each unique.

A Brief History of Aperol vs. Hugo Spritz

Aperol Spritz: From Italy to Global Popularity

Aperol Spritz has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. In 1919, the Barbieri brothers in Padua, Italy, created Aperol, a bright orange liqueur with a distinct bitter-sweet taste. Originally, they designed it as a lighter, lower-alcohol alternative to Campari, another well-known Italian aperitif. Due to its vibrant color and balanced flavor, Aperol became popular as a refreshing summer drink, especially during aperitivo hours.

In the 1950s, Venetians began mixing Aperol with Prosecco and soda water, creating the famous Aperol Spritz we know today. Over time, Aperol Spritz evolved into a global favorite. Its visually striking appearance and simple, flavorful ingredients made it a staple in summer cocktails across Europe, North America, and Australia.

Hugo Spritz: A Modern Twist on the Classic Spritz

On the other hand, Hugo Spritz is a much more recent invention. In 2005, Roland Gruber, a bartender in South Tyrol, created the Hugo Spritz as a lighter, more floral alternative to Aperol Spritz. Combining elderflower syrup, Prosecco, soda water, mint, and lime, he crafted a refreshing cocktail with a sweeter profile. The drink quickly gained popularity in Northern Italy, Austria, and Germany before its refreshing flavor started appealing to international audiences.

The floral sweetness and lightness of Hugo Spritz make it especially appealing as a summer drink, and it has since become a go-to cocktail in many regions looking for something less intense than Aperol.

Ingredients of Aperol Spritz

Aperol Spritz’s success lies in its simplicity and balance. The cocktail is traditionally made using just three primary ingredients:

1. Aperol: This orange liqueur serves as the base, bringing notes of bitter orange, rhubarb, and herbs to the drink.
2. Prosecco: This sparkling Italian wine adds bubbles and a touch of sweetness to complement the bitterness.
3. Soda Water: A splash of soda water lightens the drink, making it more refreshing.

Garnished with an orange slice, the Aperol Spritz is served over ice, making it visually stunning and aromatic. The citrus garnish enhances the zesty, bitter orange flavors in the Aperol.

Ingredients of Hugo Spritz

While Hugo Spritz shares some similarities with Aperol Spritz, its ingredients result in a significantly different flavor experience. The classic Hugo Spritz includes:

1. Elderflower Syrup or Liqueur: This syrup gives the drink its signature floral sweetness.
2. Prosecco: Like Aperol Spritz, Hugo Spritz uses Prosecco to provide effervescence and balance.
3. Soda Water: A small amount of soda water keeps the drink light and fizzy.
4. Mint Leaves and Lime: These fresh garnishes give Hugo Spritz its crisp, refreshing finish.

When combined, these ingredients create a drink that is sweet, floral, and refreshing. Hugo Spritz is also served over ice in a large wine glass, with mint leaves and lime slices elevating both the look and flavor of the cocktail.

Differences in Flavor Profiles

Aperol Spritz: Bold, Bitter-Sweet Flavors

Aperol Spritz is characterized by its bold, bitter-sweet flavor. The bitter notes come from the Aperol liqueur, which includes ingredients like orange, rhubarb, and herbs. The bitterness is balanced by the sweetness of the Prosecco, creating a complex taste that is both refreshing and slightly dry. With its bold flavors and rich color, Aperol Spritz is ideal for those who enjoy drinks with more depth and sophistication.

The addition of soda water lightens the overall taste, making it perfect for sipping on a hot day or as a pre-dinner drink during aperitivo.

Hugo Spritz: Light, Floral, and Refreshing

In contrast, Hugo Spritz offers a lighter, more floral experience. The elderflower syrup provides a sweet base, while the Prosecco and soda water keep the drink bubbly and balanced. The inclusion of mint and lime gives it a crisp, refreshing finish, making Hugo Spritz the perfect cocktail for those who prefer a drink that is less bitter and more uplifting. Hugo’s sweetness and delicate floral notes make it a great choice for summer afternoons, garden parties, or casual outdoor gatherings.

Cultural Influence and Popularity of Both Cocktails

Aperol Spritz: A Global Icon

Aperol Spritz holds an iconic status in Italy and beyond. It’s most commonly consumed during aperitivo hours, a tradition where people gather to enjoy light snacks and drinks before dinner. Aperol’s global popularity surged after successful marketing campaigns that highlighted its refreshing qualities and summer appeal. The bright orange color of Aperol Spritz, paired with large wine glasses filled with ice, quickly became a recognizable image across bars worldwide.

Today, Aperol Spritz is a popular choice not only in Italy but also in the U.S., Australia, and various European countries, where it’s often associated with outdoor dining and socializing.

Hugo Spritz: A Refreshing Summer Favorite

Although Hugo Spritz isn’t as globally recognized as Aperol Spritz, it has gained popularity in regions like Northern Italy, Austria, and Germany. Known for its light floral taste and refreshing qualities, Hugo Spritz is often enjoyed during outdoor events, garden parties, or picnics. In recent years, its appeal has spread to more regions, where people appreciate its light, sweet flavor and lower alcohol content compared to Aperol Spritz.

How to Make Aperol Spritz at Home

Making Aperol Spritz at home is incredibly simple and requires only a few ingredients. Here’s a quick guide to making this refreshing drink:

Ingredients:

• 3 oz Aperol
• 3 oz Prosecco
• 1 oz soda water
• Ice cubes
• Orange slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a large wine glass with ice.
2. Pour 3 oz of Aperol into the glass.
3. Add 3 oz of Prosecco and stir gently.
4. Top with 1 oz of soda water.
5. Garnish with an orange slice and enjoy.

How to Make Hugo Spritz at Home

Hugo Spritz is just as easy to make as Aperol Spritz. Follow these simple steps to create this light, floral cocktail:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz elderflower syrup or liqueur
• 3 oz Prosecco
• 1 oz soda water
• Fresh mint leaves
• Lime slice for garnish
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Fill a large wine glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour 2 oz of elderflower syrup or liqueur into the glass.
3. Add 3 oz of Prosecco and stir gently.
4. Top with 1 oz of soda water.
5. Garnish with mint leaves and a lime slice.

When to Choose Aperol Spritz vs. Hugo Spritz

Aperol Spritz

Aperol Spritz is best for:

• Those who enjoy bitter-sweet flavors.
• A pre-dinner aperitif.
• Hot summer days or outdoor gatherings.

Hugo Spritz

Hugo Spritz is perfect for:

• People who prefer lighter, sweeter, and more floral drinks.
• Refreshing cocktails on warm afternoons.
• Pairing with light appetizers or summer meals.

FAQs: Aperol Spritz vs. Hugo Spritz

What is the main difference in taste between Aperol Spritz and Hugo Spritz?
Aperol Spritz has a bold, bitter-sweet profile, while Hugo Spritz is light, floral, and sweet.

Can I substitute Aperol in a Hugo Spritz?
No, Aperol’s bitterness would drastically change Hugo’s light and floral flavor. Hugo relies on elderflower syrup for its sweetness.

Which drink has more alcohol content?
Aperol Spritz generally has a higher alcohol content due to the Aperol liqueur. Hugo Spritz, which uses elderflower syrup, tends to have a lower alcohol level.

Can I make non-alcoholic versions of these drinks?
Yes, you can substitute Prosecco with non-alcoholic sparkling wine and use elderflower cordial for a non-alcoholic Hugo Spritz. Non-alcoholic versions of Aperol are also available for making a non-alcoholic Aperol Spritz.

Conclusion: Which Spritz Should You Try?

In conclusion, both Aperol Spritz and Hugo Spritz are fantastic cocktails that cater to different tastes. Aperol Spritz is perfect for those who enjoy more complex, bitter cocktails with herbaceous notes. On the other hand, Hugo Spritz offers a lighter, more refreshing option with its floral sweetness and crisp minty finish.

Both drinks are easy to make at home, making them perfect choices for summer gatherings, aperitivo, or relaxing afternoons with friends. Try both and discover which one you prefer!

For more ideas on refreshing summer drinks, check out our best summer cocktail recipes.

Chef Billy

I’m Billy, a classically trained culinary school graduate from The Culinary Institute of America with over 12 years in the restaurant industry and over 19 years of cooking experience.