Is Bacardi or vodka lower in calories? A definitive comparison

December 1, 2025 •

4 min read

For a standard 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof liquor, both Bacardi Superior rum and most vodkas contain a nearly identical number of calories. For health-conscious drinkers, the question of whether Bacardi or vodka is lower in calories is less about the base spirit and more about the proof and mixers used in the final drink.

Quick Summary

This guide compares the calorie content of Bacardi and vodka, revealing that for the same proof, their caloric count is almost identical. The final calorie total for any cocktail is primarily influenced by the spirit's alcohol content and the type of mixers added.

Key Points

Similar Calorie Count: For the same proof (e.g., 80-proof), standard Bacardi rum and vodka have nearly identical calorie counts per 1.5 oz serving.
Proof Matters Most: The alcohol content (proof) is the primary determinant of calories in distilled spirits; higher proof means more calories.
Mixers are Key: The biggest factor influencing a cocktail's total calorie count is the addition of sugary mixers like juice, sodas, or liqueurs.
Zero-Calorie Mixers: To minimize calories, choose zero-calorie mixers such as club soda, diet soda, or fresh citrus.
Flavor Profile Differs: Bacardi has a sweeter, more aromatic profile from sugarcane, while vodka is a neutral spirit with minimal flavor.
Congeners and Hangovers: Vodka typically contains fewer congeners than rum, which some speculate may lead to less severe hangovers.

Bacardi vs. Vodka: The Calorie Breakdown

When it comes to distilled spirits like rum and vodka, the calories primarily come from the alcohol itself, not from residual sugars or carbohydrates. Both vodka and rum are generally distilled to a high proof, and the distillation process removes most of the carbs and sugars from the finished product. This is why for a standard 80-proof (40% ABV) serving, their calorie counts are virtually indistinguishable.

A single gram of pure alcohol contains approximately 7 calories, which is why a higher proof spirit will always have more calories per serving than a lower proof one. The key takeaway is to compare spirits based on their alcohol by volume (ABV) or proof, not just the type of spirit.

How Proof Affects Calorie Counts

The proof of a spirit is a direct indicator of its alcohol content, and therefore, its calorie count. For example, a 94-proof spirit will contain more calories per ounce than an 80-proof version. This applies equally to both vodka and rum.

80-Proof Vodka: Typically contains 96 to 97 calories per 1.5-ounce shot.
80-Proof Bacardi Superior: Contains around 96 to 98 calories per 1.5-ounce shot, according to different nutritional databases.
94-Proof Spirits: Both rum and vodka at 94 proof will have approximately 116 calories per 1.5-ounce shot.

The Real Culprits: Mixers and Cocktails

For most people, the decision of whether to have a Bacardi or vodka drink is not about the difference of a single calorie in the base spirit. The significant calorie difference comes from the mixers and cocktail ingredients. For example, a simple vodka and soda contains only the calories from the vodka, but a Piña Colada made with rum can be loaded with sugar and calories from cream of coconut and pineapple juice.

Here are some common mixers and their caloric impact:

Sugary Soda (like Cola): Adds significant calories and sugar, turning a simple rum and coke into a high-calorie drink.
Fruit Juice: Can contribute over 100 calories per glass, substantially increasing the total energy content.
Creamy Liqueurs: Drinks like a White Russian or creamy dessert cocktails contain very high calorie counts due to cream and sugar.
Diet Mixers: Diet soda or club soda with a splash of fresh lime or lemon adds minimal to zero extra calories, keeping the overall drink light.

Calorie Comparison: Bacardi, Vodka, and Other Spirits


Beverage	Serving Size	Standard Calorie Count (Approx.)
Vodka (80 proof)	1.5 fl oz	97
Rum (80 proof)	1.5 fl oz	97
Bacardi Superior (80 proof)	1.5 fl oz	96–98
Gin (80 proof)	1.5 fl oz	97
Whiskey (80 proof)	1.5 fl oz	97
Light Beer	12 fl oz	103
Red Table Wine	5 fl oz	125
White Table Wine	5 fl oz	128

Beyond Calories: Other Nutritional Factors

While calories are a key consideration for many, other factors differentiate Bacardi and vodka.

Origin and Flavor: Vodka is a neutral spirit, typically made from grains or potatoes, and is prized for its lack of distinct flavor. Bacardi, a specific brand of rum, is made from sugarcane molasses, giving it a sweeter, more aromatic flavor profile. Flavored versions of both spirits often contain added sugars and thus more calories.
Congeners: Congeners are chemical compounds produced during the fermentation process that are responsible for most of the taste and aroma of spirits. Vodka is distilled and filtered multiple times, which removes most congeners. Some rum, depending on its aging and processing, may contain more congeners than a high-quality vodka. While more research is needed, some believe that fewer congeners may contribute to a less severe hangover.

Making Smart, Low-Calorie Drink Choices

Choosing a lower-calorie alcoholic drink involves more than just picking a spirit. Here are some tips to enjoy your drink while managing calorie intake:

Choose Zero-Calorie Mixers: Opt for club soda, diet soda, or sugar-free seltzers instead of high-sugar juices or regular sodas.
Stick to the Basics: Enjoying a spirit like Bacardi or vodka neat or on the rocks is the lowest-calorie way to drink it.
Add Flavor Naturally: Use garnishes like fresh lime, lemon, mint, or cucumber to add flavor without calories.
Be Mindful of Portions: Regardless of the spirit, moderation is key. A single 1.5 oz shot of either spirit is a standard serving, and adding more increases calories proportionally.

Conclusion

In the direct comparison of Bacardi vs. vodka, there is no single winner for being definitively lower in calories. For the standard 80-proof versions, their calorie counts are almost identical. The significant variations in calorie intake come from the proof of the alcohol and, more importantly, the sugary mixers added to create a cocktail. For those aiming to minimize calories, the best strategy is to focus on a high-quality, unflavored spirit and pair it with a zero-calorie mixer. Ultimately, the choice between Bacardi and vodka comes down to personal taste preference, not a major difference in calorie count.

Frequently Asked Questions

For an equivalent proof (e.g., 80-proof), standard unflavored rum and vodka have virtually the same calorie count, with vodka often cited as negligibly lower but essentially tied.

There is a negligible difference. A 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof vodka contains about 97 calories, while a shot of 80-proof Bacardi Superior has around 96 to 98 calories, depending on the source.

Flavored versions of spirits, including Bacardi, often contain added sugars and flavoring agents, which increases their calorie count compared to their unflavored counterparts.

To reduce calories, use zero-calorie mixers like club soda, diet soda, or water. Garnish with fresh lime or mint for flavor instead of adding high-sugar juices or syrups.

Yes. The calories in alcohol are often called 'empty calories' because they provide energy but no nutritional value. The body prioritizes metabolizing alcohol, which can interfere with nutrient absorption and fat processing.

Darker, aged rums can sometimes have a slightly higher calorie count due to residual sugars and the aging process. However, the proof is still the main determining factor.

Weight gain from alcohol is largely determined by the total calorie intake, which includes the spirit itself and any mixers. Excessive drinking can also increase appetite and lower inhibitions, leading to more food consumption.