How many calories are in 1 shot of Smirnoff vodka?

November 21, 2025 •

3 min read

For a standard 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof Smirnoff No. 21 vodka, you can expect to consume approximately 97 calories. This caloric content is consistent with other major vodka brands at the same proof, as the calories come exclusively from the alcohol itself.

Quick Summary

An average 1.5-ounce shot of standard 80-proof vodka contains around 97 calories, with the count increasing alongside the alcohol proof. Calorie content is derived from the ethanol, while plain distilled spirits contain zero carbohydrates, fat, or sugar. Choosing your mixers carefully is crucial for controlling the total caloric impact of your drink.

Key Points

Standard Smirnoff Calories: A 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof Smirnoff contains approximately 97 calories.
Proof Matters: The calorie count increases with the vodka's proof; a 100-proof Smirnoff shot will contain more calories.
Zero Carbs and Sugar: Pure, unflavored vodka contains no carbohydrates, fats, or sugars, with all calories derived from the alcohol.
Mixers Add Calories: The total calorie count of a vodka drink is heavily influenced by the mixers used. Sugary mixers add significant calories.
Low-Calorie Options: To keep your drink low-calorie, use zero-calorie mixers like club soda, diet soda, or fresh citrus.
Flavor vs. Calories: While some flavored vodkas are low-calorie, always check, as others may contain added sugars.

Understanding the Calories in Smirnoff Vodka

The calorie content of a shot of Smirnoff vodka is determined primarily by its alcohol by volume (ABV), which is expressed as proof. Smirnoff offers various products with different proof levels, each affecting the final calorie count. The most common Smirnoff No. 21 is 80 proof (40% ABV), and a single 1.5-ounce shot contains approximately 97 calories. This places it among the lower-calorie distilled spirits available. The distillation process effectively removes any carbohydrates, fats, and sugars, meaning the calories come exclusively from the ethanol.

How Alcohol Content Influences Calorie Count

Since alcohol provides roughly 7 calories per gram, the more concentrated the alcohol, the higher the calorie density. A higher proof vodka will naturally have more calories per serving. Smirnoff offers products ranging from standard 80 proof to higher 100 proof, and even lower-proof flavored varieties. It's essential to check the specific product's proof if you are strictly monitoring your caloric intake. For example, a 100-proof Smirnoff vodka would contain more calories per shot than the 80-proof version.

Comparing Different Smirnoff Varieties

While the classic 80-proof Smirnoff is a reliable benchmark, it's worth noting the calorie difference in other Smirnoff products, particularly the flavored and pre-mixed beverages. Flavored vodkas can sometimes contain added sugars, although many modern versions are low-sugar or sugar-free. Ready-to-drink options like Smirnoff Ice, however, include sugary mixers, which significantly increase their calorie count.

The Impact of Mixers on Your Drink's Calories

The most significant factor influencing the total calories in a vodka drink is not the vodka itself, but what you mix it with. While a vodka and diet soda is a low-calorie option, a vodka mixed with high-sugar juice or a syrupy liqueur can turn a sub-100 calorie shot into a high-calorie indulgence. This is why a standard vodka soda is a favorite for those watching their weight, while a vodka cranberry or cosmopolitan can add hundreds of calories.

Choosing Low-Calorie Mixer Options

For a lighter drink, focus on zero-calorie mixers. Some excellent options include:

Club Soda or Seltzer: A classic, calorie-free way to add fizz.
Diet Soda: Offers familiar flavors like cola or ginger ale without the sugar.
Fresh Citrus: A squeeze of lemon or lime provides flavor with negligible calories.
Infused Water: Add sliced cucumber, fresh mint, or berries to water for a naturally flavored, zero-calorie mixer.

Comparative Table: Calories in Common Alcoholic Beverages

To put the calorie count of Smirnoff vodka into perspective, here is a comparison with other common alcoholic drinks based on standard serving sizes:


Beverage	Serving Size	Average Calories
Smirnoff Vodka (80 proof)	1.5 fl oz	97 calories
Light Beer	12 fl oz	103 calories
Dry White Wine	5 fl oz	121 calories
Red Wine	5 fl oz	125 calories
Standard Beer	12 fl oz	153 calories
Cosmopolitan	2.75 fl oz	146 calories
Pina Colada	7 fl oz	380 calories

Conclusion

Ultimately, a single shot of standard 80-proof Smirnoff vodka contains around 97 calories, with all calories coming from the alcohol itself. This makes it a relatively low-calorie choice among spirits, especially when compared to high-sugar cocktails. When monitoring caloric intake, the choice of mixer is the most important consideration. Opting for zero-calorie mixers like soda water and a twist of citrus will keep your drink light and refreshing.

For more information on the nutritional aspects of alcohol, you can visit the MedlinePlus resource, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some flavored Smirnoff vodkas may contain added sugars, which can increase the calorie count. However, many of Smirnoff's modern flavored varieties and 'Zero Sugar Infusions' are designed to be low-sugar or calorie-free, so it's important to check the specific product.

All the calories in pure, distilled vodka come from the alcohol (ethanol) itself. Ethanol contains about 7 calories per gram, which is more than carbohydrates or protein.

Yes, standard 80-proof Smirnoff vodka is a good low-calorie alcohol choice because it has no carbohydrates or sugar and relatively few calories per shot. This holds true as long as you mix it with low or zero-calorie beverages.

A Smirnoff Vodka Soda made with a standard 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof vodka and calorie-free club soda or seltzer would contain approximately 97 calories, plus a few extra if a lime is added.

Yes, the distillation process used to create vodka effectively removes all carbohydrates and sugars, leaving behind only alcohol and water.

The calorie count for standard 80-proof Smirnoff vodka (97 calories per 1.5 oz) is very similar to other 80-proof spirits like gin, rum, and tequila. Its lower calorie density compared to many wines and beers makes it a popular choice for those watching their weight.

To reduce calories, avoid sugary mixers like juice, tonic water, or soda. Instead, opt for zero-calorie options like club soda, diet sodas, or infused water. Adding fresh citrus or herbs can also enhance flavor without adding calories.