Understanding the Calories in Monaco Drinks
Not all Monaco beverages are created equal when it comes to nutritional content. The brand offers a diverse range of ready-to-drink canned cocktails, which fall into two primary categories: the low-calorie, zero-sugar Monaco 69 vodka seltzers and the higher-proof, full-flavored spirit-based cocktails. Understanding this distinction is the first step to accurately determining the calories in your Monaco drink.
The number of calories is largely influenced by two main factors: the alcohol by volume (ABV) and the amount of added sugars. Alcohol itself contains seven calories per gram, which means higher-proof drinks will naturally be more caloric. Meanwhile, the presence of juice concentrates or other sweeteners can dramatically increase the overall sugar and calorie load.
The Monaco 69 Vodka Seltzer Line
The Monaco 69 series is designed specifically for calorie-conscious consumers. These drinks are marketed as premium vodka seltzers made with six-times distilled vodka, sparkling water, and natural flavors. Key nutritional facts for this product line include:
- Low Calorie: Each 12 oz can contains just 69 calories.
- Zero Sugar and Carbs: The formula contains 0 grams of sugar and 0 grams of carbohydrates, making it a very popular choice for those on low-carb or keto diets.
- Gluten-Free: These seltzers are also certified gluten-free.
- Lower ABV: The alcohol content for this line is 3.5% ABV.
Popular flavors in the 69 series include Lemon Splash, Black Cherry Berry, and Red Razz Berry, all maintaining the same low-calorie profile.
The Higher-Proof Monaco Cocktails
In contrast to the 69 seltzers, Monaco's other canned cocktails are full-flavored and contain a significantly higher ABV, typically 9%. This higher alcohol content, along with the ingredients used to create their complex flavors, results in a higher calorie count. These cocktails often contain two full shots of premium spirits in every can, which contributes to their stronger impact.
For example, products like the Lemon Lime Vodka Soda have been reported to contain approximately 120 calories per can. The Tequila Lime Crush cocktail is listed at 99 calories per can. The specific calorie count for each flavor can vary, but they consistently fall into a higher range than the 69 seltzers due to the increased alcohol content and flavorings. Flavors in this category might include Blue Crush, Citrus Rush, and Black Raspberry.
Comparison Table: Monaco Drinks at a Glance
| Drink Type | Flavor Example | Calories (per 12oz can) | Sugar (g) | Carbs (g) | ABV (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vodka Seltzer ('69) | Lemon Splash | 69-70 | 0 | 0 | 3.5 |
| Vodka Seltzer ('69) | Black Cherry Berry | 69-70 | 0 | 0 | 3.5 |
| Tequila Cocktail | Tequila Lime Crush | 99 | Not specified | Not specified | 9.0 |
| Vodka Cocktail | Lemon Lime Vodka Soda | 120 | Not specified | Not specified | 9.0 |
| Cocktail Variety | Blue Crush | Varies, higher | Varies, higher | Varies, higher | 9.0 |
How Monaco Compares to Other Hard Seltzers
When considering your options, it is helpful to see how Monaco stacks up against other popular hard seltzer brands. Many competing brands like White Claw or Truly contain between 95 and 100 calories per 12 oz can. This positions Monaco's 69 vodka seltzer as one of the lowest-calorie options available, a key feature for those prioritizing calorie reduction. It's worth noting, however, that Monaco's higher-ABV cocktails are more comparable in calorie content to other full-strength canned cocktails or mixed drinks.
Important Dietary Considerations
For individuals monitoring their intake for weight management or dietary reasons, it's vital to read the product labels carefully. While the '69 line is a simple choice, other Monaco cocktails may contain added sugar and thus more calories. Keep the following points in mind:
- Reading the Label: Always check the specific nutrition label for the flavor you are buying, as varieties can differ. While the 69 seltzers have clear branding, other varieties might require a closer look.
- ABV Impact: Higher ABV beverages will have a higher caloric density from the alcohol itself, regardless of sugar content. Monaco's 9% ABV drinks will inherently contain more calories than their 3.5% ABV seltzers.
- Cocktail vs. Seltzer: Remember the difference between a seltzer and a canned cocktail. A seltzer is typically just alcohol, carbonated water, and flavor, while a cocktail may contain multiple spirits, fruit juices, or sweeteners.
For more information on the brand's offerings and to view product details, you can visit the official Monaco Cocktails website at drinkmonaco.com.
Conclusion
In summary, the calorie count for a Monaco drink is not a single, universal number. The low-calorie Monaco 69 Vodka Seltzers offer a transparent 69-70 calorie experience per 12-ounce can, with zero sugar and carbs, and a 3.5% ABV. However, if you opt for one of the brand's many higher-proof canned cocktails, which typically contain two shots of spirits and have a 9% ABV, the calorie count will be significantly higher, often around 100-120 calories or more depending on the flavor. Always check the specific product label to ensure you are aware of the nutritional content and that it aligns with your dietary preferences.
