Understanding the Calorie Culprits: Alcohol and Sugar
When calculating how many calories are in iced tea alcohol, it's crucial to understand the two primary sources: the alcohol itself and any added sweeteners. Alcohol is relatively dense in calories, providing 7 calories per gram, which is nearly as much as fat, which has 9 calories per gram. In contrast, carbohydrates and sugars provide 4 calories per gram. This means that drinks with a higher alcohol by volume (ABV) will inherently have more calories from the alcohol alone. Additionally, many ready-to-drink (RTD) hard iced teas and cocktails use significant amounts of sugar, which substantially increases the total calorie count. For example, a 12-ounce can of Twisted Tea contains over 23 grams of sugar.
Popular Iced Tea Alcohol Options and Their Calorie Counts
Hard Iced Teas
These beverages are malt-based or spirits-based and sold in cans or bottles. They are a popular and convenient option, but their calorie content can be surprising. For example:
- Twisted Tea (Original): A 12-ounce can contains about 190 to 194 calories, with much of that coming from the high sugar content.
- Twisted Tea (Light): A 12-ounce can of the light version offers a significantly reduced count of around 110 to 120 calories.
- Twisted Tea (Peach): Flavored versions can vary slightly. The peach flavor contains roughly 220 calories per 12-ounce bottle.
- Surfside Vodka + Iced Tea: This brand explicitly advertises a lower calorie option, with some flavors containing only 100 calories per can.
Long Island Iced Tea Cocktails
This classic cocktail is famously high in both alcohol and calories. The sheer volume of spirits and the use of a sugary mixer make it a high-calorie choice. A Long Island Iced Tea contains vodka, rum, gin, tequila, triple sec, and cola.
- Restaurant/Bar Recipe: Depending on the specific recipe and pour size, a Long Island Iced Tea can easily exceed 400 calories. Some estimates place homemade versions closer to 262 calories, but this can be highly variable.
- Ready-to-Drink (RTD): Canned versions, such as those from Cutwater Spirits, provide a specific calorie count. Their Long Island Iced Tea is listed at 345 calories per can.
- Lower-Calorie Versions: Some recipes or skinny mixers aim to cut down on the calories. Using a zero-sugar cola can reduce the total count, but the substantial volume of spirits still makes it a high-calorie drink.
Comparison Table: Iced Tea Alcohol Calories
| Drink Type | Average Calories (per 12oz) | Key Calorie Factors | Typical ABV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twisted Tea (Original) | 194 | High sugar, moderate alcohol | ~5% |
| Twisted Tea (Light) | 110-120 | Lower sugar, moderate alcohol | ~4-5% |
| Surfside Vodka + Tea | ~100 | Low sugar, spirits base | ~4.5% |
| Long Island Iced Tea (RTD) | ~345 | Multiple spirits, sugar mixer | ~10% |
| Long Island Iced Tea (Homemade) | 250-400+ | High alcohol content, sugar from spirits/mixers | ~22% |
Tips for Enjoying Lower-Calorie Spiked Tea
If you're watching your calorie intake, you don't have to give up alcoholic iced tea entirely. A few simple adjustments can significantly reduce the calories.
- Choose Lighter Mixers: If you're mixing your own drink, use unsweetened brewed iced tea and opt for zero-calorie sodas instead of full-sugar options like cola. For instance, a skinny Long Island Iced Tea recipe might use a low-calorie mixer to balance out the spirits.
- Control the Alcohol: The higher the proof and quantity of alcohol, the higher the calorie count will be. Stick to a single shot of a standard spirit like vodka rather than mixing several kinds as in a Long Island. You can also look for lower-ABV products.
- Make it Yourself: The most effective way to control calories is by making your own. Brew your favorite black tea, add a zero-calorie sweetener if desired, and mix in a shot of vodka or light rum. Garnish with fresh lemon or mint instead of sugar syrups.
- Opt for Low-Calorie RTDs: Many brands now offer low-calorie versions of hard iced tea, which is a convenient way to enjoy the flavor without the excess calories found in traditional options.
- Understand Nutritional Labels: Unlike food, alcoholic beverages often lack mandatory nutritional labeling in many regions. However, some brands provide this information voluntarily on their packaging or website. Always check if you're concerned about specific numbers. For general information on alcohol and calories, authoritative sources like Alcohol Change UK can be helpful.
Conclusion
The calories in iced tea with alcohol vary widely based on the drink's composition, with hard iced teas falling in a moderate range and complex cocktails like the Long Island Iced Tea being significantly more calorific due to multiple spirits and sugary mixers. While both alcohol and sugar contribute to the final calorie count, it's often the added sweeteners that push a drink into the higher-calorie category. By making informed choices, such as opting for low-calorie versions or preparing your own, you can enjoy a refreshing spiked tea while better managing your overall calorie intake.
