A standard 1.5 oz shooter of Tito's Handmade Vodka contains 98 calories, according to the company's official FAQs. This figure is consistent with the caloric content of other 80-proof (40% alcohol by volume) distilled spirits, where all the energy comes exclusively from the ethanol itself. The average nutritional analysis for a 1.5 oz serving of Tito's shows zero carbohydrates, zero grams of protein, and zero grams of fat, which is typical for unflavored vodkas. This simple composition is why vodka is often considered a lower-calorie alcoholic beverage option, particularly when compared to beer, wine, or cocktails made with high-sugar mixers.
Understanding the Source of Vodka's Calories
To truly grasp why vodka has a certain number of calories, it's important to understand the role of ethanol. Alcohol contains approximately 7 calories per gram, which is nearly double the calorie density of carbohydrates and protein (around 4 calories per gram) and only slightly less than fat (9 calories per gram). During the distillation process, the carbohydrates and sugars from the initial ingredients—in Tito's case, corn—are converted into ethanol, and these are then largely removed, leaving a pure, high-proof spirit. This is why vodka, regardless of what it's made from, contains no carbs or sugar.
The Relationship Between Proof and Calories
The proof of a spirit directly correlates with its alcohol content and, therefore, its calorie count. Higher proof vodkas will have more calories per ounce. Here’s a quick breakdown for a standard 1.5 oz shot:
- 70 proof (35% ABV): ~85 calories
- 80 proof (40% ABV): ~98 calories (like Tito's)
- 90 proof (45% ABV): ~110 calories
- 100 proof (50% ABV): ~124 calories
It's worth noting that Tito's is an 80-proof vodka, so its 98-calorie count per 1.5 oz serving is standard and consistent within its category.
The Calorie Trap: The Role of Mixers
While the base spirit of Tito's vodka is low in calories, the final calorie count of a mixed drink can skyrocket depending on the mixers used. The calories added by juices, sodas, and syrups are often far greater than those contributed by the vodka itself. This is the most common reason why seemingly harmless vodka cocktails can lead to a significant increase in daily caloric intake. For example, a simple vodka cranberry has more than double the calories of a straight Tito's shot due to the sugar in the juice.
Comparison Table: Straight Vodka vs. Popular Cocktails
| Drink | Ingredients | Approximate Calories (1.5 oz Tito's) |
|---|---|---|
| Tito's on the Rocks | 1.5 oz Tito's | 98 |
| Vodka Soda | 1.5 oz Tito's + Soda Water | 98 |
| Vodka Cranberry | 1.5 oz Tito's + Cranberry Juice | ~184 |
| Moscow Mule | 1.5 oz Tito's + Ginger Beer | ~150 |
| Cosmopolitan | 1.5 oz Tito's + Triple Sec + Cranberry + Lime Juice | ~146 |
Healthier Ways to Enjoy Tito's Vodka
For those monitoring their calorie consumption, there are simple and effective ways to enjoy Tito's without derailing dietary goals. The key is to be mindful of what you mix with your spirit.
- Choose Low-Calorie Mixers: Opt for zero-calorie mixers like club soda, diet soda, or sparkling water. A vodka soda is an excellent example of a light cocktail that still provides the desired flavor profile with minimal calorie addition.
- Add Freshness, Not Sugar: Use fresh garnishes like a squeeze of lemon or lime, mint leaves, or cucumber slices to add flavor without extra calories. You can also experiment with infusing your own vodka with fresh fruit to get a natural, sugar-free flavor.
- Drink It Straight or On the Rocks: The purest, lowest-calorie way to enjoy Tito's is neat or on the rocks, with just a splash of water if desired. This allows you to savor the taste of the vodka without any added calories.
- Prioritize Moderation: Ultimately, the total caloric impact of alcohol comes down to quantity. The advice to consume alcohol in moderation is not only crucial for general health but also for managing weight.
For more detailed information on alcoholic beverages and their nutritional content, resources like the MedlinePlus patient instructions can be a helpful guide.
Conclusion
A shooter of Tito's vodka, a standard 1.5 oz serving of 80-proof spirit, contains 98 calories and is free of carbohydrates, fat, and sugar. This makes it a relatively low-calorie choice among alcoholic beverages. However, the caloric content can increase significantly when mixed with sugary juices, sodas, or liqueurs. For individuals focused on diet and weight management, pairing Tito's with zero-calorie mixers like soda water or enjoying it straight or on the rocks is the best approach. Being conscious of your mixer choice is the most important factor in controlling the overall calorie count of your drink.
