5 Refreshing Spritz Adventures Inspired by the Hugo (and My Prosecco Obsession)

Is there anything better than a crisp spritz on a warm summer afternoon? After falling hard for the classic Hugo spritz, I went on a mini adventure—right in my own kitchen—to mix up five refreshing spritz variations using what I had on hand. The best part? I didn’t need a bar cart full of fancy liqueurs. Just a few ingredients from my stash, some creativity, and my favorite low-sugar prosecco: Syltzbar.

Why Syltzbar?

A quick shoutout to the prosecco that makes them all shine. I love Syltzbar because it’s low in sugar—meaning fewer calories without sacrificing taste. It’s dry, crisp, and doesn’t overpower the mix-ins. Honestly, it’s been a game-changer for my summer sipping

La Vita Spritza

Since elderflower isn’t for everyone, I recently discovered Rickey’s Botanical—a more citrus-forward alternative to the Hugo spritz. I mixed it with my favorite prosecco, added a splash of orange liqueur, topped it with sparkling soda, and finished it off with an orange garnish. Light, zesty, and super refreshing. 

My Bitter Fix

Since this spritz is a gentler, sweeter take on the Aperol Spritz—with a milder aperitivo, grenadine, prosecco, and lemon—here are some name ideas that play on that smooth, sunset-y, Italian vibe.

My Dirty Secret 

If you love a good dirty martini but want something lighter and more pool-friendly, I found the perfect twist. I’ve been using a liqueur infused with bergamot blossom—the same citrusy floral note you find in Earl Grey tea. Mix it with prosecco, a splash of club soda, and a couple of olives, and wow… it’s unexpectedly marvelous. Martini vibes, but totally summer-ready.

Purple Haze Spritz

I’ve always loved an Aviation cocktail—it’s floral, elegant, and just a little dreamy. So I couldn’t resist giving it a light, bubbly twist for summer. I know lavender can be a lot (very floral, almost perfume-y), but when you mix it with my favorite prosecco, a splash of club soda, a squeeze of lemon (plus one slice for garnish), it becomes this super refreshing, balanced spritz.

And hey, if you’re a purple lover like me—this one’s definitely your moment. 

Vanessa Blue

My newly 21-year-old daughter, Vanessa, loves a good Blue Hawaii cocktail—so I thought, why not turn it into a spritz? I mixed pineapple juice, blue curaçao, prosecco, a splash of club soda, and topped it with an orange slice (only because I should have had pineapple for the garnish… which would’ve been perfect!).

It turned out tropical, light, and super fun—just like her. 💙