Understanding the Calories in Distilled Spirits
At its core, the calorie content of any distilled spirit, including bourbon and vodka, comes almost entirely from its alcohol content, or ethanol. Ethanol contains approximately seven calories per gram, which is more than protein or carbohydrates (four calories per gram) but less than fat (nine calories per gram). Unlike beer or wine, which often contain residual sugars and carbohydrates from fermentation, straight distilled spirits contain virtually no carbs or sugar.
For most standard 80-proof spirits, the calorie count is nearly identical. A 1.5-ounce serving of 80-proof vodka contains around 97 calories, while a similar serving of 80-proof bourbon also has about 97 calories. Any minor differences in calorie count between spirits of the same proof are generally negligible and are due to the trace compounds from the grains or the aging process.
The Impact of Proof on Calorie Content
While bourbon and vodka of the same proof are comparable, the main differentiator in calorie count for any spirit is the proof. A higher proof means a higher concentration of alcohol and, therefore, more calories.
- 80-proof (40% ABV): Both vodka and bourbon have approximately 97 calories per 1.5-ounce shot.
- 100-proof (50% ABV): Both spirits have a higher calorie count of around 123 calories per 1.5-ounce shot.
- Cask Strength: Higher proof bourbons, which are not diluted as much after aging, will have a proportionally higher number of calories.
Bourbon vs. Vodka: Distillation and Flavor
The reason bourbon and vodka taste so different, despite having similar calorie counts at the same proof, lies in their production methods.
Vodka:
- Distilled to a very high purity (typically 95%+ ABV).
- Often filtered through charcoal or other materials to remove impurities and flavor compounds.
- The goal is a neutral spirit, which is then diluted with water to bottling proof, such as 80-proof.
- Purely caloric from the ethanol; no residual flavors or sugars affect the calorie count.
Bourbon:
- Distilled from a mash of at least 51% corn.
- Aged in new, charred oak barrels for a minimum of two years.
- This aging process imparts color, flavor, and minute traces of compounds from the wood.
- These compounds can add a trivial amount of calories but are not a significant factor compared to the alcohol itself.
Comparison Table: Bourbon vs. Vodka
| Feature | Bourbon | Vodka |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Calorie Source | Ethanol (alcohol) | Ethanol (alcohol) |
| Calorie Count (80 Proof) | ~97 calories per 1.5 oz | ~97 calories per 1.5 oz |
| Calorie Count (100 Proof) | ~123 calories per 1.5 oz | ~123 calories per 1.5 oz |
| Carbohydrates | 0g (in pure spirit) | 0g (in pure spirit) |
| Sugar | 0g (in pure spirit) | 0g (in pure spirit) |
| Origin of Flavor | Grains (corn, rye), new charred oak barrels | Distillation process and water; neutral taste |
| Color | Amber/brown from barrel aging | Clear |
The Role of Mixers
While the base spirits themselves are comparable in calories, the real difference in your total calorie intake often comes from what you mix with them.
High-Calorie Mixers (Avoid for low-calorie cocktails):
- Sodas (Coca-Cola, Pepsi)
- Sugary fruit juices (cranberry, orange)
- Sweet & sour mixes
- Cream liqueurs
Low-Calorie Mixers (Opt for these instead):
- Club soda or sparkling water
- Diet tonic water
- Fresh lemon or lime juice
- A splash of water
Conclusion
In short, there is no significant caloric difference between bourbon and vodka of the same proof. The long-standing belief that darker spirits are inherently higher in calories is a myth when comparing them neat. The main factors affecting a spirit's calorie count are its alcohol content (proof) and the mixers used in cocktails. For those watching their weight, the key is to choose low-calorie mixers and to moderate serving sizes, regardless of whether you prefer a classic bourbon on the rocks or a simple vodka soda. By understanding this, you can make more informed choices about your alcohol consumption without sacrificing your favorite spirits.
The Takeaway
For those watching their caloric intake, the choice between bourbon and vodka comes down to preference, not a major difference in calories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Is bourbon healthier than vodka? Answer: Neither is inherently healthier, as they are both sources of empty calories. Health benefits often cited for moderate bourbon consumption, such as antioxidants from aging, are minor. The primary health consideration for both is moderation.
Question: Does higher proof mean more calories? Answer: Yes, absolutely. The higher the alcohol percentage, the more calories per ounce, regardless of the spirit. An 80-proof liquor will always have fewer calories than a 100-proof version of the same spirit.
Question: Does mixing liquor with soda increase calories? Answer: Yes. A regular soda can add over 100 calories to a single drink. Switching to a diet soda or zero-calorie mixer is crucial for keeping cocktail calories low.
Question: Why does bourbon have flavor but not more calories than vodka? Answer: Bourbon gets its flavor from the grains used and the charred oak barrels it is aged in. Vodka is distilled to be a neutral spirit with minimal flavor compounds. The minute amount of calories from flavor compounds in bourbon is negligible compared to the calories from the alcohol itself.
Question: Can I compare bourbon and vodka based on color? Answer: No. The amber color of bourbon comes from the charred oak barrels during aging and has no significant effect on the calorie count. Vodka is clear because it is not aged in wood.
Question: How many calories are in a shot of bourbon? Answer: A standard 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof bourbon contains approximately 97 calories. This increases with higher proof options.
Question: How can I reduce calories when drinking spirits? Answer: Drink spirits neat or on the rocks, and when using mixers, opt for low-calorie alternatives like club soda, diet tonic, or fresh citrus juice.
