How many calories are in a double bourbon? Your calorie guide.

Calculating the Calories in a Double Bourbon

When you order or pour a double bourbon, you are typically getting a 3-ounce serving. Since a standard 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof (40% ABV) bourbon contains about 97 calories, a double of the same would be approximately 194 calories. However, this is just a baseline, as the calorie content is directly tied to the alcohol by volume (ABV) or proof of the spirit. Alcohol contains around seven calories per gram, which is nearly as dense as fat, and is the primary source of calories in bourbon since it is a distilled spirit with no carbohydrates, sugar, or fat.

The Role of Proof in Calorie Count

The proof of a bourbon is a simple metric that directly correlates with its calorie count. As the proof increases, so does the amount of alcohol in the spirit, leading to a higher calorie total per serving. For instance, a 100-proof (50% ABV) bourbon will have more calories per ounce than a standard 80-proof bourbon. This means a double of a higher-proof bourbon could easily exceed 200 calories. For example, a 1.5-ounce serving of 100-proof bourbon is about 125 calories, making a double around 250 calories. Those who prefer cask-strength varieties, which can have even higher proofs, will consume a higher number of calories with each drink.

The "Empty Calories" of Alcohol

It is important to understand that the calories in bourbon are considered "empty calories." This term refers to calories that provide energy but offer no nutritional value to the body, such as vitamins, minerals, or fiber. When you consume alcohol, your body prioritizes its metabolism over other functions, including fat burning. This means that while your body is busy processing the alcohol, it is less efficient at metabolizing other macronutrients. This is a crucial consideration for anyone focused on weight management, as the empty calories from alcohol can add up quickly without providing any satiety or nutritional benefit.

How Mixers Transform the Calorie Count

For those who prefer a mixed drink over a neat bourbon, it is important to remember that mixers can dramatically increase the total calorie count. For example, a whiskey and cola can easily double or triple the calories of the drink, turning a relatively low-calorie spirit into a significant source of sugar and calories. Opting for zero-calorie mixers like soda water, or simply drinking it neat or on the rocks, is the best way to control your caloric intake while enjoying a bourbon.

Bourbon vs. Other Alcoholic Beverages: A Calorie Comparison

To put a double bourbon's calorie count into perspective, it helps to compare it with other popular alcoholic beverages. While the exact calorie count can vary by brand and serving size, the following table provides a general overview based on standard pours.


Drink	Serving Size	Approximate Calories	Notes
Double Bourbon (80-proof)	3 oz	194 calories	Varies by proof.
Single Margarita	4 oz	200-300 calories	High sugar content from mix.
Pint of Beer (5% ABV)	16 oz	150-200 calories	Varies by beer type and ABV.
Glass of Wine (12% ABV)	5 oz	120-130 calories	Varies by sweetness.
Single Vodka & Soda	1.5 oz	~96 calories	Assumes no sugar in mixer.

As the table shows, a double bourbon, especially neat, can be a more moderate calorie option compared to many sugary cocktails and even some beers. However, a single neat pour remains the most calorie-efficient choice among spirits.

Practical Tips for Moderating Calorie Intake

Stick to Neat or Rocks: This eliminates added calories from mixers. Drinking bourbon neat or on the rocks is the purest, lowest-calorie way to enjoy it.
Choose Lower Proof: If you are highly conscious of calorie intake, selecting an 80-proof bourbon will result in fewer calories per drink than a 100-proof or higher version.
Use Calorie-Free Mixers: For mixed drinks, combine bourbon with diet soda, club soda, or soda water instead of sugary options.
Measure Your Pours: Bartenders often pour more generously than a standard 1.5-ounce shot. Using a jigger at home ensures you know exactly how much you are consuming.
Alternate with Water: To pace yourself and stay hydrated, alternate between sips of your bourbon and sips of water. This helps reduce total alcohol and calorie consumption.

Conclusion

In summary, a double bourbon contains approximately 194 calories, assuming a standard 80-proof whiskey. This figure is primarily derived from the alcohol itself, which is comprised of empty calories. The actual number can increase with higher-proof bourbons or the addition of sugary mixers. By understanding these factors and making conscious choices, you can better manage your caloric intake while still enjoying your favorite spirit. A double bourbon neat is generally a better choice than a high-sugar cocktail, but monitoring your intake remains key for weight and health management. Remember that a mindful approach to drinking, including measuring servings and choosing low-calorie mixers, is the best strategy.

Sources: For further information on alcohol and nutrition, you may consult resources such as the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Research articles and nutrition databases can provide more detailed information on specific brands and varieties.