The Hugo Spritz is a light, floral aperitivo spritz poured at Grappa in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. It is built on St. Elder elderflower liqueur, our house-made mint syrup and lime, topped with sparkling wine and a splash of soda. It is on our list as a delicate, low-intensity spritz for guests who want something refreshing and fragrant to begin the evening.

What’s In It

The build is bright and aromatic. We combine St. Elder, an elderflower liqueur, with our house-made mint syrup and fresh lime, then lengthen it with sparkling wine and a top of soda water over ice. The elderflower brings gentle floral sweetness, the mint syrup adds a cooling herbal lift, and the lime keeps everything crisp. Soda and sparkling wine make it effervescent and easy. Garnished in the classic spritz style, it is summery and elegant.

About This Cocktail

The Hugo originated in northern Italy’s South Tyrol in the mid-2000s, created as a lighter, floral alternative to the Aperol Spritz. It has since become one of Europe’s most popular aperitivi. At Grappa, we make it our own with house-made mint syrup, which adds a fresh herbal note alongside the elderflower. The result is a fragrant, delicate spritz, low in intensity and built for relaxed sipping.

Tasting Notes

The aroma is floral and minty, with elderflower leading and bright citrus behind. The palate is light, effervescent and softly sweet, the mint adding a cooling lift. The finish is crisp and clean, refreshing rather than rich. A delicate, easygoing spritz.

What to Pair It With

This floral spritz pairs beautifully with light Mediterranean plates. Try it with our Heirloom Tomatoes & Burrata, Our Hummus, or the tender Spaniard Octopus. Explore the full dine-in menu for more.

How It’s Served at Grappa

The Hugo Spritz is a hand-crafted cocktail at $14, served over ice.

FAQ

What’s in the Hugo Spritz?

St. Elder elderflower liqueur, house-made mint syrup, lime, sparkling wine and a splash of soda, served over ice.

What does it taste like?

Floral and minty with elderflower and bright citrus, light and effervescent with a softly sweet, crisp finish.

Is it sweet or strong?

It is lightly sweet and low in intensity. Lengthened with soda and sparkling wine, it is a delicate, refreshing aperitivo rather than a strong drink.

Ready to visit? Book a table, browse the full cocktail list, and see the dine-in menu.