How Many Calories Are in a Whiskey Sour?

January 11, 2026 •

4 min read

A classic Whiskey Sour cocktail typically contains between 150 and 200 calories, but the exact number can fluctuate significantly based on preparation and ingredients. This guide breaks down exactly how many calories are in a Whiskey Sour and how ingredient choices impact the total.

Quick Summary

This guide explores the calorie content of a classic Whiskey Sour, detailing the contribution of each ingredient. It examines how ingredient choices, from whiskey proof to sweeteners, affect the final count and provides tips for creating a lower-calorie version.

Key Points

Standard Calories: A classic Whiskey Sour typically ranges from 150 to 200 calories, varying with recipe specifics.
Main Calorie Sources: The majority of calories come from the alcohol in the whiskey and the sugar in the simple syrup.
Minimize Sugar: Using less simple syrup or opting for a sugar-free alternative is the most effective way to reduce the calorie count.
Whiskey Proof Matters: Higher-proof whiskeys contain more alcohol and, therefore, more calories per ounce.
Egg White is Low-Cal: The optional egg white contributes very few calories but adds a distinctive texture to the drink.
Fresh is Best: Using fresh lemon juice and controlling the simple syrup is healthier than relying on high-sugar premade mixes.
Low-Calorie Customization: Reduce calories by using sugar-free simple syrup or adding club soda.

What is a Whiskey Sour?

A Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that balances the heat of whiskey with the sweetness of simple syrup and the tartness of lemon juice. While recipes can vary, a standard version uses bourbon, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and sometimes an egg white to create a rich, foamy texture. The simplicity of its ingredients makes it a cocktail-hour staple, but also means that the final calorie count is heavily dependent on the quantity and type of each component.

The Calorie Breakdown of a Classic Whiskey Sour

To understand the calorie content, we must look at each ingredient individually. Using a common recipe, the breakdown is as follows:

Whiskey (Bourbon): A standard 1.5-ounce pour of 80-proof whiskey contains approximately 97 calories. If using a higher-proof bourbon (like 100-proof), this number increases to around 110 calories per 1.5 ounces. The alcohol itself is the primary source of calories here.
Simple Syrup: The sugar in simple syrup is a major calorie contributor. A standard simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water) contains roughly 50 calories per ounce. Most recipes call for 0.5 to 0.75 ounces, adding between 25 and 38 calories.
Fresh Lemon Juice: The calories from fresh lemon juice are minimal. A single fluid ounce contains only about 6-8 calories.
Egg White: The optional egg white, used to create a silky texture and foamy top, adds only about 17 calories per large egg white.

Based on these numbers, a classic Whiskey Sour with 2 ounces of 80-proof whiskey, 0.75 ounces of simple syrup, 0.75 ounces of lemon juice, and an egg white would have approximately 150 to 170 calories. However, using higher-proof whiskey or more simple syrup could easily push the total closer to or above 200 calories.

The Impact of Your Ingredient Choices

Your choice of ingredients and preparation method can dramatically alter the calorie content.

The Calorie Role of Whiskey Proof and Type

As mentioned, the proof of your whiskey directly correlates with its calorie count. A higher-proof bourbon will yield a higher-calorie cocktail. While the type of whiskey (bourbon, rye, Scotch) does not have a significant impact on calories per ounce, the specific brand and its proof are key factors. For instance, a 1.5 oz shot of 80-proof whiskey has 97 calories, while a 94-proof shot has 116 calories.

The Sugary Sweetness of Simple Syrup

Simple syrup is pure sugar and water, and it's the most controllable variable in the calorie equation. Many commercial sour mixes are loaded with high-fructose corn syrup, preservatives, and artificial flavors, which spike the calorie count without providing the fresh, balanced flavor of homemade ingredients. Using fresh lemon juice and making your own simple syrup allows you to control the sweetness and, therefore, the calories.

With or Without Egg White

Some recipes call for an egg white, which creates a characteristic foam. For those concerned with calories, the addition is negligible. A single egg white adds less than 20 calories, and the impact is primarily on the texture, not the overall energy content.

Creating a Low-Calorie Whiskey Sour

For those watching their calorie intake, it is surprisingly simple to make a delicious, lighter version of this classic drink. Here are some simple steps:

Use a sugar-free simple syrup: Replace traditional simple syrup with a zero-calorie alternative like stevia-based simple syrup or other artificial sweeteners.
Reduce simple syrup: Simply use less simple syrup. You can start with half the amount and adjust to your taste, letting the whiskey and lemon shine through.
Use lower-proof whiskey: Opt for an 80-proof whiskey over a higher-proof version to save a few calories per drink.
Add a splash of soda: For a longer, more refreshing drink without added calories, top your whiskey sour with a splash of club soda.

Calorie Comparison: Whiskey Sour vs. Other Cocktails

To put the Whiskey Sour's calorie content into perspective, here is a comparison with other popular cocktails, based on standard recipes:


Cocktail	Typical Serving Size	Estimated Calories
Whiskey Sour	3-4 fl oz (89-120 ml)	125-200
Margarita	4 fl oz (120 ml)	168
Mojito	6 fl oz (177 ml)	143
Rum and Coke	8 fl oz (235 ml)	185
Cosmopolitan	2.75 fl oz (81 ml)	146
Gin & Tonic	7 fl oz (207 ml)	189
Vodka & Tonic	7 fl oz (207 ml)	189

Conclusion: Mindful Enjoyment

At its core, a Whiskey Sour is a relatively low-calorie cocktail when made with fresh, quality ingredients. The calorie count is most influenced by the simple syrup, and mindful drinkers can significantly reduce this by making smart ingredient choices. Whether you prefer the classic preparation or a lighter version, understanding the components allows you to enjoy this timeless cocktail without derailing your nutritional goals. By controlling the amount of sugar and perhaps adding a sugar-free sweetener, you can craft a delicious, refreshing drink that suits your palate and your diet.

For more comprehensive nutritional information on various foods and beverages, consult a reliable source like the MedlinePlus patient instructions page on calorie counts.

Frequently Asked Questions

The whiskey itself contains a significant amount of calories due to its alcohol content, while the simple syrup, which is pure sugar and water, is the other major contributor.

To make a low-calorie Whiskey Sour, you can use a sugar-free simple syrup, reduce the amount of simple syrup, or dilute the drink with a splash of club soda.

While the type (bourbon, rye, etc.) doesn't significantly change the calories per ounce, the proof does. Higher-proof whiskeys have more alcohol and therefore more calories.

The egg white adds a minimal number of calories, approximately 17 for a large egg white, so it has a negligible impact on the overall calorie count.

Using fresh lemon juice and homemade simple syrup is almost always healthier than a premade mix, which often contains high-fructose corn syrup and excessive sugar.

A classic Whiskey Sour is often lower in calories than many other mixed drinks like a Rum and Coke or a Pina Colada, especially when you control the amount of sugar.

Yes, you can substitute agave syrup for simple syrup. While still a form of sugar, you may need to use less as it is sweeter, which can help manage the total calories.