The Nutritional Profile of a Cutwater Long Island
For those monitoring their caloric intake, the ready-to-drink Cutwater Long Island Iced Tea provides a straightforward nutrition label, unlike a bar-made cocktail. The most significant number to note is the total calorie count, which is 345 for a single 12-fluid ounce (355ml) can. This places it on the higher end of the spectrum for canned cocktails, largely due to its potent blend of multiple spirits and sweeteners.
A Deeper Dive into the Numbers
Beyond just the calories, several other nutritional factors contribute to the total count:
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g per can, which includes all sugars and carbs.
- Total Sugars: 20g per can, all of which are included in the total carbohydrate count.
- Added Sugars: My Food Diary specifically notes that the can includes 20g of added sugars.
- Alcohol by Volume (ABV): The can has a high ABV of 13.2%, which is a major contributor to the overall calories, as alcohol provides roughly 7 calories per gram.
- Other Macros: It contains 0g of total fat and 0g of protein, so all calories come from alcohol and carbohydrates.
Comparison: Cutwater Long Island vs. Other Cocktails
To put the Cutwater Long Island Iced Tea's calorie count into perspective, here is a comparison with other popular cocktails, both canned and traditional. This table can help you make a more informed choice based on your dietary goals.
| Drink (12 oz) | Calories | Carbs (g) | ABV (%) | Main Calorie Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cutwater Long Island Iced Tea | 345 | 20 | 13.2 | Alcohol & Sugar |
| Cutwater Vodka Soda (Lime) | 99 | 0 | varies | Alcohol |
| Cutwater Lime Margarita | 360 | 27 | 12.5 | Alcohol & Sugar |
| Standard Bar-made Long Island | up to 780 | varies | varies | Alcohol & Sugar |
| Cutwater Pina Colada | 545 | varies | 13 | Alcohol & Coconut Cream |
As you can see, the Cutwater Long Island Iced Tea is substantially higher in calories than lighter canned options like the Cutwater Vodka Soda. While it is lower than some traditionally heavy, large-format bar cocktails, it is still a very calorie-dense beverage.
Why is the Calorie Count so High?
The high caloric load of a Long Island Iced Tea, including the canned version from Cutwater, is a direct result of its recipe. Unlike a simple mixer, the Long Island is a mix of four distinct spirits—vodka, gin, rum, and tequila—in addition to triple sec and a cola and citrus flavor mix. The total volume of alcohol and the sugar content from the various ingredients combine to create a drink with a considerable energy density. Every gram of alcohol contributes calories, so a higher ABV naturally means a higher calorie count.
The Impact of Ingredients
- Multiple Spirits: The combination of four high-proof liquors is the most significant factor. More alcohol equals more calories.
- Sweeteners: The citrus and cola flavoring often contains a high amount of added sugar, contributing directly to both the carbohydrate and calorie totals.
- Higher ABV: At 13.2%, the alcohol percentage is much higher than that of standard beer or seltzer, which drives up the calorie count. For perspective, the Cutwater Lime Vodka Soda is just 99 calories at a much lower ABV.
Strategies for Calorie-Conscious Drinkers
For those who enjoy cocktails but want to manage their calorie intake, here are some alternatives and tips:
- Switch to Lighter Options: Consider a Cutwater Vodka Soda or another brand's ranch water, which are typically much lower in calories and contain zero carbs or sugar.
- Sip on Seltzer: If you're a fan of sparkling drinks, a low-calorie hard seltzer can be a good substitute.
- Make Your Own: For maximum control over ingredients, making a cocktail from scratch allows you to use sugar-free mixers or a diet soda to reduce calorie and sugar content.
- Moderation is Key: Simply limiting your consumption is the most effective way to manage your calorie intake. Just one can of the Cutwater Long Island can account for a significant portion of a daily caloric budget.
Conclusion
A can of Cutwater Long Island Iced Tea packs a considerable punch, with 345 calories, 20g of carbohydrates, and 20g of sugar per 12-ounce serving. While it offers convenience and a high ABV, its robust nutritional profile means it's not the best choice for those seeking a low-calorie alcoholic beverage. By understanding the factors that contribute to its calorie count and exploring lighter alternatives, you can make smarter choices while still enjoying a good drink. For official product details, always check the Cutwater Spirits website.
