How many calories in a 2pz gin?

November 19, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data, a standard 2-ounce pour of 90-proof gin contains approximately 146 calories. This is a common starting point for understanding how many calories in a 2pz gin, but the final total can change dramatically with mixers and garnishes.

Quick Summary

A standard 2-ounce serving of 90-proof gin has around 146 calories, with all calories derived from the alcohol itself and no sugar or carbs. The total calorie count significantly increases with the addition of high-sugar mixers like regular tonic water or juice.

Key Points

Standard Pour Calories: A 2-ounce (2pz) pour of 90-proof gin contains approximately 146 calories, with all calories originating from the alcohol.
ABV Influence: The exact calorie count varies based on the gin's alcohol by volume (ABV); higher ABV results in more calories.
Mixer Impact: The mixers used, such as regular tonic water or fruit juice, contribute most significantly to the final calorie count of a gin cocktail.
Low-Calorie Options: Opt for zero-calorie mixers like soda water or low-calorie alternatives like diet tonic water to keep your drink light.
Comparative Advantage: Gin is generally lower in calories than beer and wine, especially when paired with diet mixers, making it a viable option for those monitoring their intake.

Understanding the Calorie Count in a 2-Ounce Pour of Gin

When calculating the calories in a 2-ounce (2pz) serving of gin, it is important to remember that almost all of the caloric content comes from the alcohol itself. Distilled spirits like gin contain no sugar or carbohydrates in their pure form. The energy from alcohol is substantial, with approximately 7 calories per gram, second only to fat at 9 calories per gram. For a standard 2-ounce pour (approximately 60ml) of 90-proof gin (45% ABV), the calorie count typically falls around 146. This figure can vary slightly based on the alcohol by volume (ABV) of the specific gin brand.

The Impact of ABV on Gin Calories

Gin is not a one-size-fits-all product; its alcohol content varies by brand and type, which directly influences its calorie count. For example, Navy Strength gins often have a higher ABV, which means a higher calorie density per ounce compared to a standard London Dry gin. Sweeter or flavored gins, like Old Tom or certain pink gins, may have slightly higher calorie counts due to added ingredients, though the primary source of calories remains the alcohol.

The Mixers that Add Up

The most significant change to the calorie count of your 2pz gin comes from what you mix with it. While the gin itself is low in carbohydrates, many popular mixers are loaded with sugar, turning a seemingly light drink into a much heavier one.

Low-Calorie Mixer Choices

Soda Water: The ultimate zero-calorie mixer. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime or a sprig of mint provides flavor without the extra sugar.
Diet Tonic Water: A great substitute for regular tonic, a diet or slimline tonic drastically reduces the sugar and calorie content of a gin and tonic.
Coconut Water: Unsweetened coconut water offers a tropical twist with minimal added calories.

High-Calorie Mixer Examples

Regular Tonic Water: A standard gin and tonic with regular tonic can contain upwards of 150-180 calories per drink.
Fruit Juices: Adding orange, cranberry, or pineapple juice can easily add 50-100+ calories per drink.
Sweetened Liqueurs and Syrups: Cocktails like a Gin Fizz or Aviation often include high-sugar ingredients that substantially increase the calorie count.

Calorie Comparison: Gin vs. Other Spirits

To put gin's calorie content into perspective, it's helpful to compare it to other alcoholic beverages. A standard 1.5-ounce shot of most 80-proof clear spirits, including vodka, rum, and whiskey, generally contains between 96 and 115 calories. A 2-ounce pour of gin is comparable to a small glass of wine but is significantly less caloric than a pint of beer or cider.


Beverage	Serving Size	Approx. Calories	Notes
Gin (90 proof)	2 ounces	146	Pure, distilled spirit.
Gin (80 proof)	1.5 ounces	96-100	Standard cocktail measure.
Wine (Red/White)	5 ounces	120-150+	Varies by sweetness and brand.
Beer (Lager)	1 pint	200-300	Varies greatly by brand.
Cider	1 pint	210-216	Sweetness adds significant calories.

How to Reduce Calories in Your Gin Drinks

For those watching their caloric intake, there are several simple strategies to enjoy gin without compromising on taste. First, always prioritize your mixer. Choosing sugar-free options like soda water or diet tonic is the most effective way to cut calories. Another tip is to embrace garnishes. Instead of relying on sweet mixers, use fresh herbs like basil or mint, and citrus wedges like lime, lemon, or grapefruit to enhance the botanicals of the gin. Finally, drinking in moderation is key. A single 2pz serving of gin is relatively low in calories compared to mixed drinks, so enjoying it straight or with a simple, calorie-free mixer is a great approach.

Conclusion: The Final Calorie Tally

In summary, a 2-ounce pour of gin is a relatively low-calorie choice, especially when compared to sugary cocktails or heavier alcoholic beverages like beer and wine. The key takeaway is that gin's pure form is carbohydrate-free, and any significant calorie increase is introduced by mixers. For a truly low-calorie drink, sticking to diet tonics or soda water with fresh garnishes is the most effective strategy. Understanding that the caloric impact is tied to the alcohol content and your mixer choices allows you to make informed decisions for a healthier drinking experience.

Visit Drinkaware for more information on alcohol and calorie counting.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, pure distilled gin contains no sugar or carbohydrates. The calories come exclusively from the alcohol itself.

A standard 25ml single measure contains about 52 calories, while a 50ml double measure is roughly 104 calories, prior to adding any mixers.

There is no significant difference in calorie content between similarly proofed gin and vodka; both are approximately 96-115 calories per 1.5-ounce serving.

It can be, but it depends on the tonic. A gin with diet tonic is low-calorie, whereas a gin with regular tonic can add a significant amount of sugar and calories.

Use soda water instead of tonic, opt for diet tonic, or add a squeeze of fresh citrus and herbs. Avoid sugary syrups and juices.

Alcohol is a highly concentrated source of calories, providing about 7 calories per gram. The body prioritizes burning alcohol for energy, which can lead to other consumed calories being stored as fat.

Some flavored or sweeter gins, such as Sloe Gin or Old Tom, may have slightly more calories due to added sugars and ingredients, but the alcohol content remains the primary factor.