How many calories are in a 2 oz shot of vodka?

According to the USDA, a single fluid ounce of 80-proof vodka contains around 64 calories. Therefore, a 2 oz shot of standard 80-proof vodka contains approximately 128 calories. The precise number can vary depending on the vodka's proof, with higher proof spirits containing more calories.

Quick Summary

The calorie content of a 2 oz vodka shot is determined by its proof, with 80-proof vodka containing around 128 calories. This article explores how alcohol content impacts calories and compares vodka with other drinks.

Key Points

• Calorie Count: A 2 oz shot of standard 80-proof vodka contains approximately 128 calories.

• Proof Matters: The calorie count increases with the proof; higher alcohol content means more calories.

• Empty Calories: All calories in pure vodka come from the alcohol (ethanol), which provides 7 calories per gram.

• Avoid Sugary Mixers: Mixers like juice or tonic can add significant calories and sugar, negating vodka's low-calorie base.

• Moderation is Key: While low in calories, excessive alcohol intake can hinder weight loss and impact overall health.

• Carb-Free Spirit: Plain, unflavored vodka contains no carbohydrates, sugar, or fat.

• Healthier Combinations: For lower-calorie drinks, pair vodka with soda water, diet soda, or a squeeze of fresh lime.

Understanding Calories in Vodka

Vodka's calorie content comes almost entirely from the alcohol itself, or ethanol. Unlike beer or wine, which may contain residual sugars and carbohydrates, pure distilled vodka is free of carbs, sugar, and fat. Alcohol contains roughly 7 calories per gram, which is higher than carbohydrates and protein (4 calories per gram) but less than fat (9 calories per gram). Because all of vodka's calories are from the alcohol, the key factor influencing the calorie count of your 2 oz shot is its proof.

The Impact of Proof on Calorie Content

Proof is a measure of the alcohol by volume (ABV). In the United States, proof is double the ABV percentage. The higher the proof, the higher the alcohol concentration, and consequently, the higher the calorie count for the same volume. This is an important distinction to consider, especially when comparing different brands or types of vodka.

For a standard 2 oz serving, here is a breakdown based on different proofs:

• 70 Proof (35% ABV): Approximately 113 calories.
• 80 Proof (40% ABV): Approximately 128 calories.
• 90 Proof (45% ABV): Approximately 147 calories.
• 100 Proof (50% ABV): Approximately 165 calories.

This shows that a seemingly small difference in proof can add up, particularly for those closely monitoring their caloric intake.

Flavored Vodka and Mixers: Hidden Calories

While plain vodka is a low-calorie spirit, flavored vodkas and mixers can drastically increase the total calorie count of a drink. Some flavored vodkas are made with added sugars and sweeteners, not just infusions, which boosts the calorie total. However, many flavored vodkas today use natural flavors without added sugar, maintaining a calorie count similar to their unflavored counterparts. It is always best to check the label.

Mixers are an even bigger culprit for hidden calories:

• Vodka Tonic: Combining 2 oz of vodka with 4 oz of standard tonic water can add up to 60+ extra calories from sugar.
• Vodka Cranberry: A 2 oz vodka shot mixed with 4 oz of cranberry juice can add nearly 80 extra calories.
• White Russian: This cocktail adds significant calories from cream and coffee liqueur, pushing the total to over 300 calories.

For a low-calorie option, using zero-calorie mixers like soda water, diet soda, or a splash of fresh citrus juice is the best strategy.

Vodka vs. Other Alcoholic Beverages: A Calorie Comparison

To put the 2 oz vodka shot's calorie count into perspective, it's helpful to compare it with other popular alcoholic beverages. This comparison highlights why vodka is often considered a favorable option for those on a diet, especially when consumed neat or with low-calorie mixers.

Beverage	Serving Size	Approximate Calories
Vodka (80 proof)	2 oz (double shot)	128 kcal
Light Beer	12 fl oz (355 ml)	103 kcal
Regular Beer	12 fl oz (355 ml)	153 kcal
Red Wine	5 fl oz (148 ml)	125 kcal
White Wine	5 fl oz (148 ml)	121 kcal
Gin (80 proof)	1.5 fl oz (45 ml)	97 kcal
Whiskey (80 proof)	1.5 fl oz (45 ml)	97 kcal

As the table shows, a double shot of 80-proof vodka has a moderate calorie count compared to a full glass of wine or a regular beer. It's on par with a typical glass of wine but has no carbs or sugar, making it a preferable choice for those watching their carbohydrate intake.

The Role of Alcohol in Weight Management

While a 2 oz shot of vodka can be a relatively low-calorie choice, it's crucial to remember that alcohol can still impact weight management. Alcohol contains 'empty calories,' providing no nutritional value. The body prioritizes metabolizing alcohol over burning fat, which can hinder weight loss efforts. Additionally, drinking alcohol can increase appetite and impair judgment, potentially leading to higher food consumption.

For those looking to enjoy vodka while managing their weight, the following tips can be helpful:

• Stick to responsible portions: Measure your drinks to accurately track your calorie intake.
• Choose low-calorie mixers: Use soda water, diet soda, or fresh lemon/lime juice instead of high-sugar options.
• Alternate with water: Drink a glass of water between alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated and reduce overall alcohol and calorie consumption.
• Avoid drinking on an empty stomach: Have a meal beforehand to slow alcohol absorption and reduce the likelihood of overeating.

Conclusion

To summarize, a 2 oz shot of 80-proof vodka contains approximately 128 calories, with the exact number depending on its proof. Higher-proof vodkas will have a slightly higher calorie count due to their greater alcohol concentration. While plain vodka is a low-calorie, carb-free option, the mixers used can dramatically increase a drink's total calories. For those mindful of their caloric intake, opting for unflavored vodka served neat, on the rocks, or with a zero-calorie mixer is the best approach. Remember that moderation is key when incorporating any alcohol into a healthy lifestyle, as excessive consumption can still negatively impact weight management and overall health. For further information on alcohol and nutrition, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides valuable resources.

References

• Kitchen Serf. (June 21, 2025). Calories in Vodka?. Retrieved from https://kitchenserf.com/calories-in-vodka/
• Eat This Much. (n.d.). 2 Fl Oz Of Vodka Nutrition Facts. Retrieved from https://www.eatthismuch.com/calories/vodka-3066?a=1.3238095238095238%3A1
• Elevated Spirit Shop. (September 25, 2025). How Many Calories in a Shot of Vodka?. Retrieved from https://elevatedspiritshop.com/blogs/vodka/how-many-calories-in-a-shot-of-vodka
• Healthline. (February 19, 2025). Vodka: Calories, Carbs, and Nutrition Facts. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/vodka-calories
• Reigncane Vodka. (June 12, 2024). Can Vodka Make You Fat? Separating Fact from Fiction. Retrieved from https://reigncanevodka.shop/blogs/all-about-vodka-3/can-vodka-make-you-fat-separating-fact-from-fiction
• Alcohol.org.nz. (November 2022). Energy (kilojoules/Calories) in alcoholic drinks. Retrieved from https://resources.alcohol.org.nz/assets/Uploads/Publications/5.0-AL1152-FE-Infosheet-Energy-in-Alcoholic-Drinks_Nov-22.pdf
• Alcohol Think Again. (February 15, 2024). How Alcohol Affects Nutrition And Food Absorption. Retrieved from https://alcoholthinkagain.com.au/alcohol-and-your-health/long-term-health-effects/alcohol-and-nutrition
• MedlinePlus. (May 14, 2024). Calorie count - Alcoholic beverages. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000886.htm

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you calculate the calories in vodka based on proof?

To calculate the approximate calories, remember that one gram of alcohol has about 7 calories. Vodka's proof is twice its ABV. For a standard 1.5 oz shot of 80-proof (40% ABV) vodka, it's around 96-97 calories. A 2 oz shot would be approximately 128 calories.

Are flavored vodkas higher in calories than regular vodka?

Not necessarily. Many flavored vodkas achieve their taste through infusions and contain no added sugars, keeping their calorie count similar to regular unflavored vodka of the same proof. However, some brands do add sweeteners, so it's best to check the nutritional label to be sure.

Does vodka have any nutritional value?

No. Vodka contains what are known as 'empty calories,' meaning it provides energy but no essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, or fiber. Its calorie content comes solely from the ethanol.

Is vodka a good choice for a weight-loss diet?

Vodka is a relatively low-calorie alcoholic beverage when consumed neat or with zero-calorie mixers. However, excessive alcohol intake can still contribute to weight gain by providing empty calories, increasing appetite, and slowing fat metabolism. Moderation is the most important factor.

How many calories are in a vodka soda with a 2 oz shot?

A vodka soda with a 2 oz shot of 80-proof vodka has approximately 128 calories, assuming the soda water has no added calories. This is because soda water is a zero-calorie mixer.

How does vodka compare to wine in terms of calories?

A 2 oz shot of 80-proof vodka (approx. 128 kcal) is comparable to a standard 5 oz glass of red or white wine, which typically ranges from 120-130 calories. The key difference is that wine has carbohydrates, whereas plain vodka does not.

What is the lowest calorie way to drink vodka?

The lowest calorie ways to drink vodka are neat, on the rocks, or mixed with zero-calorie beverages like soda water, sparkling water, or diet mixers. Adding a fresh squeeze of lemon or lime provides flavor without adding sugar.