The Hugo Spritz, once hailed as the new Aperol Spritz, is being pushed aside by a new contender: The Stavros. This four-ingredient cocktail, a riff on the Hugo, swaps Prosecco and mint for rosé, elderflower, lime juice, and ice, garnished with a rosemary sprig. Invented by Srdan Rogosic, the drink has gone viral on TikTok, amassing 1.2 million views, and is now being touted as the perfect summer refreshment.
What is The Stavros and How Did It Go Viral?
The Stavros was first shared online by chef John Gregory-Smith, who filmed himself making the drink while on holiday with his fiancée, Srdan Rogosic, in Greece earlier this summer. The name is a nod to its ultra-Hellenic origins. Credit for the invention goes to Rogosic, who created it on one of their past Greek holidays.
The video quickly gained traction, racking up 1.2 million views on TikTok and hundreds of comments from viewers who described the cocktail as 'gorge' and 'divine.' Some commenters suggested adding a shot of vodka or gin, but the drink's refreshment factor is key to its appeal. According to Gregory-Smith, who filmed the video at a luxury Greek villa, 'It’s the perfect summer cocktail to enjoy by the pool and drink all day long.'
How to Make The Stavros: Recipe from Srdan Rogosic
Rogosic has shared the recipe with Metro. For one serving, you'll need 150ml chilled rosé, 30ml St-Germain (or elderflower cordial), the juice of half a lime, soda water, a rosemary sprig, and a lime wheel for garnish. Fill a large glass with ice, pour in the rosé, St-Germain, and lime juice, stir gently, and top with soda water. Adjust St-Germain to taste. Rub the rosemary between your hands to release its oils, then place it in the glass. Add a lime wheel if desired.
Why Elderflower Drinks Are a British Summer Staple
Elderflower has long been a favorite in Britain, where foraging and scrumping are part of the cultural fabric. The flower's aroma is complex, with a study by the United States Environmental Protection Agency identifying up to 59 volatile aroma compounds, many of which are floral and also found in roses and lychees. This complexity makes elderflower a versatile ingredient in drinks, pairing well with bubbles that intensify flavors.
The popularity of elderflower-based drinks is on the rise. Hugo Spritz sales reportedly tripled in the three months to June 2026, and sales of St-Germain, the French elderflower liqueur, have increased by 135.5%, now selling better in Britain than anywhere else. Known as 'bartender’s ketchup' for its versatility, St-Germain offers a less bitter alternative to G&T or Aperol Spritz, making it a hit in summer.
For those eager to try The Stavros, the recipe is simple and adaptable. Whether you stick to the original or add a personal twist, this cocktail is poised to become a summer favorite. As Gregory-Smith noted, it's perfect for all-day sipping by the pool—just keep a glass of water nearby, as the drink can be deceptively strong.
