What alcohol has the most calories per shot?

With alcohol containing approximately 7 calories per gram, nearly the same density as fat, it's no surprise that some alcoholic beverages are more calorie-dense than others. For those watching their intake, understanding what alcohol has the most calories per shot is key to making informed choices and managing consumption.

Quick Summary

This article explains which alcoholic beverages pack the most calories into a single shot. The calorie count depends primarily on alcohol content and added sugars. High-proof liquors and sugary liqueurs are the most caloric options, while unflavored, standard-proof spirits contain fewer calories.

Key Points

• Proof is key for straight spirits: For unflavored liquor, a higher proof (alcohol content) means more calories per shot. A 190-proof spirit like Everclear contains significantly more calories than a standard 80-proof vodka.

• Sugar adds up in liqueurs: Liqueurs get their high calorie count from a combination of alcohol and added sugar, making them surprisingly calorie-dense, sometimes more so than straight spirits.

• Mixers are a hidden source: Sugary mixers, creams, and juices in cocktails add a huge number of extra calories, often turning a low-calorie spirit into a high-calorie drink.

• Everclear is the highest per shot: As the highest-proof consumer alcohol available, Everclear holds the top spot for calories in a single shot, though it is not typically consumed neat.

• Choose carefully for lower calories: For lower-calorie drinking, opt for standard-proof unflavored liquors mixed with zero-calorie beverages like soda water or diet tonic.

• Moderation is essential: Beyond calorie count, all alcohol should be consumed in moderation due to potential health risks associated with excessive intake, regardless of the drink.

The Highest Calorie Alcohols Per Shot

When comparing alcoholic beverages, two primary factors determine the calorie count: alcohol content (proof) and the presence of added sugars. For straight shots, the highest proof options will always contain the most calories because ethanol itself is energy-dense. However, for liqueurs and mixed drinks, added sugars can significantly increase the total caloric load, often surpassing high-proof spirits.

The Calorie Champion: Grain Alcohol

The absolute winner for the most calories in a single shot is high-proof grain alcohol, such as Everclear. Because its proof is extremely high (up to 190 proof or 95% alcohol), it contains a significant amount of calories packed into a small volume. A single 1.5-ounce shot of 190-proof Everclear contains approximately 285 calories, far exceeding any other standard spirit. It is important to note that such high-proof spirits are not typically consumed neat and are often diluted in mixed drinks, but the raw calorie density is unmatched.

High-Calorie Liqueurs

While not as high as grain alcohol, many liqueurs are surprisingly high in calories due to their high sugar content. This is where the combination of alcohol and sugar really drives up the numbers. Unlike unflavored liquors, which contain no sugar, liqueurs are often sweet and syrupy, leading to a much higher calorie count per volume.

• Triple Sec: A 60-proof triple sec can contain around 225 calories per 1.5-ounce shot due to added sugars.
• Crème de Menthe: This liqueur packs approximately 187 calories in a 1.5-ounce shot.
• Coffee Liqueur (Kahlúa): While the proof is lower, the high sugar content gives it a high calorie count, at about 160 calories per 1.5-ounce serving.

How Proof Affects Calories in Spirits

For standard distilled spirits like vodka, whiskey, and gin, the calorie count is almost entirely determined by the alcohol content. Since they are distilled and contain no added sugars, their calorie content scales directly with their proof. The proof of a spirit is double its alcohol percentage by volume (ABV).

• 80 Proof (40% ABV): A 1.5-ounce shot contains approximately 97 calories.
• 90 Proof (45% ABV): A 1.5-ounce shot contains approximately 110 calories.
• 100 Proof (50% ABV): A 1.5-ounce shot contains approximately 124 calories.

High-Calorie Mixed Drinks

It is also worth noting that while some spirits are low in calories on their own, adding sugary mixers, cream, or juices can turn them into a calorie bomb. For example, a White Russian, with vodka, Kahlúa, and heavy cream, can contain over 500 calories per glass. A piña colada, full of coconut cream and pineapple juice, is another prime example of a deceptively high-calorie alcoholic drink. To minimize calories in cocktails, stick to spirits mixed with zero-calorie beverages like soda water, diet soda, or a splash of fresh citrus juice.

Comparison of Alcoholic Beverages by Calories

Beverage (1.5 oz shot)	Proof/ABV	Approximate Calories	Main Calorie Source
Everclear	190 Proof / 95% ABV	~285 kcal	High Alcohol
Triple Sec	60 Proof / 30% ABV	~112 kcal*	Added Sugar + Alcohol
Crème de Menthe	72 Proof / 36% ABV	~125 kcal*	Added Sugar + Alcohol
Bacardi 151 Rum	151 Proof / 75.5% ABV	~183 kcal	High Alcohol
Coffee Liqueur (Kahlúa)	40 Proof / 20% ABV	~160 kcal	Added Sugar + Alcohol
Vodka	80 Proof / 40% ABV	~97 kcal	Alcohol
Whiskey	80 Proof / 40% ABV	~97 kcal	Alcohol
Tequila	80 Proof / 40% ABV	~97 kcal	Alcohol

*Note: The calorie counts for liqueurs like Triple Sec and Crème de Menthe can vary widely by brand and proof. Values listed are based on typical products and may differ from specific bottles.

Making Calorie-Conscious Choices

If you are mindful of your caloric intake, it is best to opt for standard, unflavored spirits and mix them with calorie-free options. While Everclear contains the highest calories per shot, its potent nature means it is almost always heavily diluted, and you will likely consume less alcohol per drink than with a sugary liqueur. Therefore, knowing what you are drinking and how it is mixed is the most effective strategy for managing calories from alcohol.

Conclusion

In the final analysis, Everclear, a high-proof grain alcohol, contains the most calories per shot due to its exceptionally high alcohol content. However, highly sweetened liqueurs and rich, creamy cocktails can also contain a significant number of calories in a single serving. For those seeking to minimize their caloric intake from alcohol, the best approach is to choose standard-proof, unflavored spirits and pair them with zero-calorie mixers. Understanding the factors at play—primarily alcohol content and added sugars—is the most effective way to manage your consumption.

For more detailed information on the calorie content of alcoholic beverages, you can consult resources like the table provided by MedlinePlus.

Health Considerations

Beyond calories, it's crucial to remember that alcohol can have numerous effects on your health. As your liver processes alcohol, other metabolic processes, including fat burning, can be slowed. Excess alcohol consumption is associated with significant health risks, including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and certain cancers. Regardless of calorie content, all alcohol should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. The concentration of alcohol, such as in high-proof spirits, can also increase the risk of alcohol poisoning if not handled with extreme caution.

Sources

• • MedlinePlus: Calorie count - Alcoholic beverages. (2024, May 14). medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000886.htm
• • Delish: 14 Liquors With The Highest Calories. (2016, July 19). delish.com/food-news/g3513/the-alcohol-with-the-most-calories/
• • Reddit: TIL that one shot (1.5 oz) of Everclear can contain up to 285 calories. (2012, November 15). reddit.com/r/todayilearned/comments/138tpe/til_that_one_shot_15_oz_of_everclear_can_contain/
• • Garage Gym Reviews: 25 Alcoholic Beverages Ranked by Calories Per Ounce. (2024, November 8). garagegymreviews.com/alcoholic-beverages-ranked-by-calories

Frequently Asked Questions

Does higher alcohol proof always mean more calories?

For unflavored, distilled spirits, yes. The higher the alcohol proof, the higher the calorie count per shot, as all calories in these drinks come from the ethanol.

Do liqueurs have more calories than unflavored spirits?

Liqueurs often contain more calories than standard 80-proof spirits because they have added sugar, which significantly increases the total calorie count per volume.

How many calories are in a standard 1.5-ounce shot of vodka?

A standard 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof vodka contains approximately 97 calories.

Why do some websites list different calorie counts for the same alcohol?

Calorie counts can vary based on brand, proof, and the specific serving size used for the calculation. Additionally, some calculations may use slightly different conversion factors, leading to minor variations.

Are calories from alcohol different than food calories?

Alcohol calories are often called 'empty calories' because they provide energy without essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, or fiber. Your body prioritizes metabolizing alcohol over other nutrients, which can slow down fat burning.

How can I reduce the calories in my alcoholic drinks?

To reduce calories, choose standard-proof spirits and mix them with zero-calorie options like soda water, club soda, or diet beverages. Avoid sugary mixers, syrups, and heavy creams.

What is the highest-calorie alcohol? Is it Everclear?

Yes, Everclear (190-proof grain alcohol) contains the most calories per shot due to its extremely high alcohol content, at approximately 285 calories per 1.5-ounce shot. However, sweet liqueurs and creamy cocktails can also be very high in calories.