Does Crown Royal Have Calories? Decoding the Nutrition in Whiskey

December 18, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data, a standard 1.5-ounce shot of plain Crown Royal Canadian whisky contains approximately 96 to 97 calories. While often assumed to be calorie-free, all alcoholic beverages, including Crown Royal, contain calories primarily derived from the alcohol itself. These are often referred to as "empty calories" because they provide energy without significant nutritional value.

Quick Summary

This guide reveals the exact calorie content of a standard shot of Crown Royal and explains that the primary source of calories is the alcohol itself. It also examines how different mixers and flavored varieties can significantly alter the total calorie count of your drink.

Key Points

Standard Crown Royal: A 1.5-ounce shot of plain Crown Royal has about 97 calories.
Source of Calories: All calories in pure whiskey come from the alcohol (ethanol), not from carbohydrates or fat.
Calorie Density: Alcohol contains approximately 7 calories per gram, nearly double that of protein or carbs.
Flavored vs. Plain: Flavored versions, such as Crown Royal Salted Caramel, contain added sugars and therefore have a higher calorie count than the original.
Mixers Matter: The biggest source of extra calories in whiskey cocktails is often the sugary mixers, not the spirit itself.
Diet-Friendly Options: For a lower-calorie drink, stick to neat whiskey or mix with zero-calorie options like club soda or diet soda.
Empty Calories: Calories from alcohol provide energy but no nutritional value, which is why they are considered 'empty calories'.
Proof and Calories: Higher-proof spirits contain more alcohol and, consequently, more calories per ounce.

Understanding Calories in Crown Royal

Distilled spirits like Crown Royal contain calories, but unlike beer or wine, they have virtually no carbohydrates, fats, or protein. This is because the distillation process removes the sugars and starches present in the grains used during fermentation. The calories in pure Crown Royal come almost exclusively from the ethanol alcohol itself.

The energy content of alcohol is significant, providing about 7 calories per gram—falling between carbohydrates (4 calories per gram) and fat (9 calories per gram). For a 1.5-ounce (45 ml) shot of 80-proof (40% ABV) whiskey, this translates to roughly 96 to 97 calories, with minor variations possible depending on the exact proof. This makes plain whiskey a popular choice for those on low-carb diets like keto, as long as it's consumed without sugary mixers.

The Calorie Impact of Crown Royal Variations

While the original Crown Royal Canadian whisky is calorie-lean, its flavored counterparts and ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails have a different nutritional profile. The addition of flavorings and sugars can drastically increase the calorie count. For example, flavored whiskies like Crown Royal Salted Caramel include added sugar, contributing additional carbohydrates and calories. Similarly, pre-mixed drinks featuring Crown Royal with cola or other sugary mixers will have a much higher calorie load than the spirit on its own.

To manage calorie intake, it's crucial to be mindful of what you mix with your Crown Royal. Opting for zero-calorie mixers is a simple way to enjoy the flavor of the whisky without the extra sugar and calories. Examples include club soda, diet cola, or a twist of citrus.

Comparison of Crown Royal and Other Alcoholic Beverages

For a clear perspective on how Crown Royal's calorie content stacks up, consider this comparison table. The figures below are based on a standard serving size for each beverage.


Beverage	Serving Size	Approximate Calories	Carbohydrates (approx.)
Crown Royal (Standard)	1.5 oz shot	97	0g
Vodka (80 proof)	1.5 oz shot	97	0g
Light Beer	12 oz can	103	Low (typically <10g)
Regular Beer	12 oz can	153	10-15g
Dry Red Wine	5 oz glass	125	3-5g
Sugary Cocktail (e.g., Margarita)	4 oz serving	168+	High (can be 20g+)

Calorie Sources: Alcohol vs. Mixers

When evaluating the calorie content of any alcoholic drink, it's essential to differentiate between the alcohol itself and any added ingredients. For distilled spirits like unflavored whiskey, the alcohol is the sole source of calories. However, a significant portion of the calories in cocktails often comes from the mixers. For example, a rum and cola cocktail can contain almost double the calories of the rum alone due to the sugar in the soda. This is why cocktails and pre-mixed beverages are often higher in both calories and carbohydrates than straight spirits.

How to Enjoy Crown Royal on a Low-Calorie Diet

If you're watching your calorie intake, there are several ways to enjoy Crown Royal without derailing your goals. The simplest method is to consume it neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water. Another popular option is a “whisky and soda,” where the club soda is a calorie-free mixer. Using a zero-sugar diet soda is another strategy for those who prefer the classic whisky and cola flavor. Awareness of the ingredients in your cocktails is the best defense against unknowingly consuming excess calories. For further information on alcohol and calorie counting, consider consulting health and nutritional resources online.

Conclusion

In summary, yes, Crown Royal has calories, and they come primarily from the alcohol itself, not from fat or carbohydrates. A standard 1.5-ounce serving of plain Crown Royal contains approximately 97 calories. While this makes it a low-carb and relatively low-calorie option among spirits, the total calorie count can increase dramatically when flavored varieties or sugary mixers are used. By being mindful of your drink combinations, you can enjoy Crown Royal while keeping your calorie intake in check. Ultimately, managing your overall consumption is key to balancing enjoyment with health considerations.

Note: Calorie information can vary slightly based on the specific product, proof, and serving size. Always check the nutritional information if available for the most accurate data.

Sources

This article was compiled using information from trusted nutritional databases and health-focused publications.

Frequently Asked Questions

A standard 1.5-ounce (or 45 ml) shot of plain Crown Royal Canadian whisky contains approximately 96 to 97 calories.

No, the calories in pure, unflavored Crown Royal come entirely from the ethanol alcohol itself. The distillation process removes sugars and carbohydrates from the fermented grains.

Yes, flavored varieties like Crown Royal Salted Caramel contain added sugars for flavor, which increases their overall calorie and carbohydrate content compared to the original.

The calories in pure alcohol are a byproduct of the fermentation and distillation process. Alcohol provides energy but is not a macronutrient like carbohydrates, fat, or protein.

For a low-calorie drink, mix Crown Royal with zero-calorie options like club soda, diet soda, or a splash of water. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime can add flavor without calories.

Plain, unflavored Crown Royal is a suitable option for low-carb diets as it contains zero carbohydrates. It's important to avoid sugary mixers, which would add carbs.

To calculate the total, you must add the calories from the Crown Royal (approx. 97 per 1.5 oz shot) to the calories of all the mixers and garnishes used in the cocktail.