Does Bourbon Have More Carbs Than Vodka?

December 26, 2025 •

3 min read

Most people assume the rich, complex flavor of bourbon means it's higher in carbs than clear spirits like vodka, but they are mistaken. The crucial detail that determines the carbohydrate count is the distillation process, which removes all fermentable sugars, leaving both unflavored bourbon and vodka with zero carbs.

Quick Summary

Pure distilled spirits like unflavored bourbon and vodka both contain zero carbohydrates per serving due to the distillation process. Any difference in nutritional value comes from added mixers, with sugary ingredients dramatically increasing the carb count. This guide clarifies the nutritional facts for each spirit and explains why what you mix them with is most important for low-carb diets.

Key Points

Zero Carbs: Both pure, unflavored bourbon and vodka have zero carbohydrates per serving due to the distillation process.
Distillation Process: Distillation removes the carbs from the fermented grain or potato mash, leaving behind only the alcohol and water.
Mixers are the Culprit: The carb count of a bourbon or vodka drink is determined by sugary mixers like juice, soda, or syrup, not the spirit itself.
Keto-Friendly (with caution): For those on a keto diet, bourbon and vodka are fine options when consumed neat or with carb-free mixers, though alcohol does pause fat metabolism.
Check Flavored Varieties: Be wary of flavored versions of either spirit, as they may contain added sugars that increase the carb content.
Calories Still Apply: Although carb-free, both spirits contain calories from the alcohol content itself. An 80-proof shot of either has approximately 97 calories.

Bourbon vs. Vodka: Understanding the Distillation Process

The fundamental similarity between bourbon and vodka, despite their vastly different flavor profiles, lies in their creation. Both undergo a distillation process that separates the pure alcohol from the original fermented mash. For bourbon, this mash is a blend of grains that must be at least 51% corn, while vodka can be distilled from virtually any starchy or sugary material, like potatoes or wheat. The fermentation process converts the starches and sugars into ethanol, and the subsequent distillation removes all the residual carbohydrates, rendering the final product carb-free.

Why Pure Distilled Spirits Have Zero Carbs

When a spirit is distilled, the liquid is heated until the alcohol vaporizes. This vapor is collected and condensed back into a liquid, which is the high-proof spirit. All the non-volatile compounds, including sugars and starches from the fermentation process, are left behind. This is why a straight shot of vodka or bourbon is considered a zero-carb drink. The rich color and distinct flavor of bourbon come from aging in charred new oak barrels, not from added sugar.

The Carb Culprits: Mixers and Added Flavors

The carbohydrate content of a drink is almost always determined by what is added to the spirit. While a shot of unflavored bourbon or vodka is carb-free, a cocktail made with them can be packed with sugar. Sugary sodas, fruit juices, and syrups are common mixers that can transform a zero-carb base into a high-carb beverage. This is a critical distinction for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet.

Comparing Nutritional Values: Bourbon vs. Vodka

Beyond carbohydrates, there are other nutritional factors to consider. The following table provides a clear comparison of unflavored, standard-proof (80-proof) bourbon and vodka per 1.5-ounce serving.


Nutritional Component	Standard 1.5 oz. Bourbon (80-proof)	Standard 1.5 oz. Vodka (80-proof)
Calories	~97 calories	~97 calories
Carbohydrates	0 grams	0 grams
Sugar	0 grams	0 grams
Protein	0 grams	0 grams
Fat	0 grams	0 grams

As the table shows, the core nutritional facts are virtually identical. The calories in both spirits come exclusively from the alcohol itself, which contains approximately 7 calories per gram. The specific proof of the spirit can alter the calorie count; a higher-proof spirit will have more calories per serving.

Low-Carb Cocktail Considerations

Choose the right mixers: When making a cocktail, opt for carb-free mixers. This includes soda water, diet soda, sugar-free tonic water, and fresh lime or lemon juice.
Embrace 'on the rocks' or neat: The safest way to ensure a zero-carb drink is to enjoy the spirit on its own or over ice.
Beware of flavored spirits: Many flavored vodkas and bourbons contain added sugars or syrups, which add carbohydrates. Always check the label if you are concerned about carb content.
Prioritize fresh, whole ingredients: For flavor without the carbs, muddle fresh herbs like mint or basil, or add a twist of citrus rind. For more inspiration, explore resources on crafting low-carb drinks, such as this guide from Trifecta Nutrition.

What the Science Says about Alcohol and Ketosis

Even though pure spirits are carb-free, it's important for those on a ketogenic diet to understand how alcohol affects the body. When alcohol is consumed, the liver prioritizes metabolizing it to remove the toxin from the body. This process can temporarily halt the body's fat-burning process, also known as ketosis. While a single drink of bourbon or vodka won't automatically 'kick' you out of ketosis, it will pause your body's focus on burning fat for energy. Moderation is key for maintaining nutritional goals.

Conclusion

To definitively answer the question, "Does bourbon have more carbs than vodka?" the answer is a resounding no. Unflavored, pure distilled bourbon and vodka contain zero carbohydrates. The true determinant of a drink's carb count is the mixer. For those monitoring their carb intake, focusing on carb-free mixers is the most effective strategy. While both spirits are carb-free, always remember that moderation is essential, as alcohol adds calories and affects your body's metabolic processes.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, many flavored spirits are made with added sugars or syrups after distillation. Always check the nutrition label, as these can contain significant carbohydrates.

To make a low-carb cocktail, mix your spirit with carb-free options like club soda, diet soda, or a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice.

While pure spirits have no carbs, alcohol metabolism is prioritized by the liver over fat metabolism, which can temporarily slow down the process of ketosis.

The calorie count for unflavored vodka and bourbon of the same proof (alcohol concentration) is nearly identical, with an 80-proof shot containing around 97 calories.

Yes, in moderation. As long as you stick to neat spirits or use carb-free mixers, the carb and calorie impact is minimal compared to beers, wine, or sugary cocktails.

The carbohydrates from the corn mash are consumed by yeast during fermentation and are then completely removed during the distillation process.

Alcohol provides energy at 7 calories per gram, but it is not a nutrient like carbs, fat, or protein. Your body processes it first and stores the energy, but it should not be treated as a primary energy source.