How many calories are in a shot of vodka 90 proof?

January 3, 2026 •

3 min read

A standard 1.5-ounce shot of 90-proof vodka contains approximately 110 calories, a number that can vary slightly but remains consistent for unflavored spirits of this strength. This caloric content is derived entirely from the alcohol itself, as pure vodka contains no carbohydrates, fat, or protein.

Quick Summary

A 1.5-ounce pour of 90-proof vodka has about 110 calories, with all calories originating from the alcohol. The final calorie total increases significantly with higher proof levels and the addition of sugary mixers.

Key Points

110 Calories per Shot: A standard 1.5-ounce shot of 90-proof vodka contains approximately 110 calories.
Proof Matters: The caloric content is directly proportional to the proof, or alcohol percentage. Higher proof means more calories.
No Nutrients: Pure vodka contains only ethanol and water, meaning its calories are 'empty' and offer no nutritional benefits like carbs, fat, or protein.
Mixers are Calorie Traps: While vodka is a low-calorie spirit, sugary mixers can dramatically increase the total calorie count of a drink.
Metabolism Impact: The body metabolizes alcohol before fat, which can interfere with weight loss and overall metabolic efficiency.
Smarter Drinking: To minimize calorie intake, choose lower-proof vodkas and opt for zero-calorie mixers like soda water and citrus.

The Core Calorie Count

For a standard 1.5-ounce shot, 90-proof vodka, which is 45% alcohol by volume (ABV), provides around 110 calories. Unlike beer or wine, which can contain calories from sugars and other compounds, the calories in pure, unflavored vodka come exclusively from the ethanol. This makes vodka a transparent option for those monitoring their calorie intake, as the calorie count is directly tied to the alcohol concentration.

How Alcohol Proof Influences Calorie Content

The proof of a spirit is a direct measure of its alcohol content. By definition, the proof is twice the percentage of alcohol by volume. This means a 90-proof vodka is 45% alcohol. The simple rule is: the higher the proof, the more alcohol is present per unit of volume, and therefore, the higher the calorie count will be. Since alcohol contains approximately 7 calories per gram, its calorie density is nearly double that of protein and carbohydrates (4 calories per gram).

Comparing Different Vodka Proofs

To illustrate the impact of proof, consider the calorie comparison for a 1.5-ounce shot at different levels:


Vodka Proof	Alcohol by Volume (ABV)	Calories (per 1.5 oz shot)
70-proof	35%	~85 calories
80-proof	40%	~96-97 calories
90-proof	45%	~110 calories
100-proof	50%	~124 calories

Hidden Calories in Mixed Drinks

While a shot of vodka is relatively low in calories compared to many other alcoholic beverages, the mixers used can quickly add significant and often overlooked calories. A simple vodka soda is a low-calorie choice, while drinks with sugary juices, sodas, and syrups are not. For example, a Moscow Mule contains sugary ginger beer, and a White Russian includes cream and coffee liqueur, dramatically increasing the total calorie count.

The 'Empty Calories' and Your Metabolism

Alcohol calories are often referred to as "empty calories" because they provide energy without offering any nutritional value like vitamins or minerals. More importantly for those managing their weight, the body prioritizes metabolizing alcohol over other nutrients. The liver focuses on breaking down the alcohol first, which can temporarily halt the burning of fat. This process, sometimes called "fat sparing," means that consuming alcohol can interfere with weight management goals, even if you are carefully counting calories.

Making Smarter Choices

For those who want to enjoy vodka while being mindful of their calorie intake, there are simple strategies. Sticking to unflavored vodka and using calorie-free mixers like soda water or a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice is an effective way to control the total. Opting for a lower-proof vodka can also make a marginal difference. Always remember that moderation is key, as excessive alcohol consumption, regardless of proof, has significant health consequences.

Conclusion

A 1.5-ounce shot of 90-proof vodka contains approximately 110 calories, derived entirely from its 45% alcohol content. This makes it a transparent, zero-carb spirit, but it is important to be aware of the calorie contributions of mixers. By understanding the direct link between alcohol proof and calories, and by making conscious choices about mixers, you can better manage the impact of alcoholic beverages on your dietary goals. For comprehensive information on alcohol and your health, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) is an authoritative source.

Frequently Asked Questions

A standard 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof (40% ABV) vodka contains approximately 96 to 97 calories.

Not necessarily. Many flavored vodkas are made without adding sugar, resulting in the same calorie count as unflavored versions. However, some brands add sweeteners, which can increase the calories per shot.

Yes, the calories from alcohol are often called 'empty calories' because they provide energy without any essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, or protein.

For unflavored vodkas of the same proof, the calorie count is virtually identical across all brands, as the calories come only from the alcohol content.

A vodka soda with a 1.5-ounce shot of 90-proof vodka contains roughly 110 calories, as soda water has zero calories. Adding a lime wedge would only add a negligible amount.

A 1.5-ounce shot of 90-proof vodka (~110 calories) is comparable to or slightly higher than other common spirits of similar proof. For example, 1.5 ounces of 80-proof whiskey is about 105 calories, while 80-proof rum and gin are around 97 calories.

Yes, drinking vodka can impact weight loss. The body prioritizes metabolizing alcohol, which temporarily slows down fat metabolism. Consuming alcohol also adds extra calories to your diet, and it can increase appetite.