Hugo 75

What is Hugo 75?

The Hugo 75 is a contemporary cocktail that combines two of the most beloved modern classics into a single sophisticated drink: the Hugo (created in 2005 by Roland Gruber in South Tyrol, Italy as an elderflower-and-Prosecco alternative to the Aperol Spritz) and the French 75 (created at Harry's New York Bar in Paris around 1915 and named after the famous French 75mm field gun). The Hugo 75 takes the elderflower foundation from the Hugo and adds the gin, lemon, and sparkling wine structure of the French 75, creating a hybrid that captures the best qualities of both drinks. The defining ingredient that elevates this hybrid beyond a simple combination is Empress 1908 Gin, the Canadian gin produced in Victoria, British Columbia since 2017 by Victoria Distillers. Empress Gin is famous for its naturally vivid purple hue, which comes from butterfly pea flower infused during distillation. The most striking property of butterfly pea flower is that it changes colour dramatically when exposed to acidic ingredients: when lime juice or any citrus is added, the purple liquid transforms into a vibrant pink-magenta colour through the same pH-sensitive natural chemistry that has fascinated drinkers since Empress's launch. This colour transformation has made Empress Gin one of the most photographed spirits in cocktail bartending history.

Don't forget to see what other drinks you can make with the ingredients you already have in your bar.

Taste profile

The Hugo 75 is bright, floral, citrus-forward, and luxuriously elegant with a layered flavour profile that genuinely transforms the two classic templates it draws from. Empress 1908 Gin leads the spirit profile with its distinctive botanical complexity: juniper, rose, coriander, ginger, and the unique character of butterfly pea flower itself, which contributes subtle floral and earthy undertones that no other gin can replicate. Elderflower liqueur is the transformative ingredient that connects this cocktail to its Hugo heritage: its lychee, white flower, and ripe pear notes wrap around the gin's botanicals beautifully, creating a depth that goes well beyond what plain simple syrup could provide. Fresh lime juice delivers sharp citrus acidity that simultaneously balances the sweetness and triggers the dramatic colour transformation from purple to pink-magenta. Simple syrup adds just enough additional sweetness to balance the lime's tartness without imposing additional flavour. Prosecco finishes the cocktail with dry effervescence that lifts all the floral and citrus elements and contributes a subtle stone fruit complexity. The overall flavour is sophisticated, floral, dry-bright, and aromatically complex, with a finish that lingers in pleasant elderflower notes balanced by Prosecco's clean acidity.

Serving suggestions

The colour transformation moment is the entire visual identity of this cocktail and worth executing for maximum drama. Pour the Empress Gin into the cocktail shaker first so it retains its purple hue, then add the lime juice last and shake briefly to observe the colour change from deep purple to vivid pink-magenta. For an even more theatrical presentation, build the drink directly in the glass: pour the Empress Gin first, then add the elderflower liqueur and simple syrup, and finally add the lime juice while guests watch as the entire glass transforms colour before their eyes. Use a quality Brut or Extra Dry Prosecco (Mionetto Prosecco DOC, La Marca, or Bisol) rather than a sweet style: the elderflower liqueur and simple syrup already provide considerable sweetness, and a sweet Prosecco shifts the cocktail into dessert territory. Chill the flute or coupe in the freezer for at least 10 minutes before pouring to preserve the Prosecco's effervescence. A fresh mint sprig and a thin lime wheel make the classic garnish: the mint adds aromatic complexity on the nose, while the lime visually reinforces the citrus element that triggered the colour change. For special occasions, add an edible flower (lavender, pansy, or hibiscus) for an Instagram-worthy presentation.

Why You'll Love It?

Ingredients for Hugo 75

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Step‑by‑Step Instructions

1. Add Empress Gin, elderflower liqueur, simple syrup, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Shake well until chilled.
3. Strain into a champagne flute or coupe glass.
4. Top gently with Prosecco, and garnish with a mint sprig and a lime wheel.