Gen Z has officially declared the Hugo spritz as the must-have summer cocktail for 2026, according to a new survey by Bacardi Limited. The light, floral Italian aperitif has overtaken the long-reigning Aperol spritz as the top choice among 18-to-29-year-olds in the UK, marking a significant shift in drinking trends.
What Is the Hugo Spritz?
The Hugo spritz is a refreshing cocktail made with Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, fresh mint, soda water, and a slice of lemon. It offers a sweeter, less bitter alternative to the traditional Aperol spritz. The drink originated in Italy and has gained massive popularity on TikTok, accumulating billions of views as younger drinkers share their love for the beverage.
Survey Shows Dramatic Rise
Bacardi Limited's annual survey revealed that the Hugo spritz was ranked number one by 18–29-year-olds for summer cocktails. Steve Young, business unit director for Bacardi in the UK, commented: "The Spritz has taken the UK by storm. Two years ago, it didn't even make the top 10 in our annual survey and now it's the number one choice for Gen Zers."
The report attributes the dethroning of the Aperol spritz to a cultural shift toward "day caps" — longer, lighter-tasting drinks enjoyed in the afternoon. This trend is now popular among both Millennials and Gen Z.
Sales Surge for Elderflower Liqueur
UK sales of St-Germain elderflower liqueur, a key ingredient in the Hugo spritz, have more than doubled in the last year. This reflects a growing national preference for lighter, floral flavors during warm weather. The Hugo spritz is now widely available in pubs across the country, including Wetherspoons, and as a pre-mixed can in major UK supermarkets such as Co-op, Aldi, M&S, and Tesco.
Perfect for UK Heatwaves
With its simple, light, and fresh profile, the Hugo spritz is an ideal choice for cooling down while enjoying the sunshine during UK heatwaves. As the summer of 2026 heats up, Gen Z's new favorite drink looks set to dominate pub gardens and social media feeds alike.
