Understanding the Calorie Count in Vodka Seltzers
To find the lowest-calorie vodka seltzer, it's essential to understand where the calories come from. The calories in any alcoholic beverage come primarily from two sources: the alcohol itself and any added ingredients like sugars or juices. Alcohol contains approximately 7 calories per gram, which is nearly twice the calories of carbohydrates or protein. This means even a vodka seltzer with zero sugar will still contain calories from the vodka, but eliminating sugary mixers is the most significant way to reduce the overall calorie count.
Most hard seltzers on the market are not made with a vodka base. Instead, they use a fermented sugar cane base, similar to how beer is made. Vodka seltzers, however, are made with distilled vodka, natural flavors, and sparkling water, which often results in a cleaner, more straightforward flavor profile and fewer potential calories from added sugar. When evaluating products, look for terms like "vodka soda" or specifically "vodka seltzer" to ensure you're getting a true spirit-based option. Always check the nutritional information to confirm the sugar and carb content.
The Search for the Absolute Lowest-Calorie Vodka Seltzer
When searching for the lowest-calorie options, you can explore both the DIY route and readily available canned varieties. The most basic and arguably lowest-calorie vodka seltzer is one you make yourself. A 1.5-ounce shot of vodka mixed with plain club soda and a fresh squeeze of citrus, like lime, results in a drink that is mostly just the calories from the vodka, potentially under 100 calories. However, for those who prefer the convenience of a can, several brands compete for the lowest spot.
International options often appear at the lower end. For instance, the Australian brand Actual Vodka Seltzer is advertised at 69 calories per 300mL can. Another brand, the UK-based Long Shot Hard Seltzer, claims 65-68 calories per 250ml can, although it's not explicitly vodka-based. In the U.S. market, top contenders in the 100-calorie range or less include:
- Cutwater Spirits Vodka Sodas: Available nationally, these vodka sodas have 99 calories, 0g sugar, and 0g carbs in flavors like Lime and Cucumber.
- Canteen Spirits Vodka Sodas: Another national brand offering a 5% ABV vodka soda with 99 calories, 0g sugar, and 0g carbs in various flavors.
- Sunny D Vodka Seltzer: This nostalgic flavor comes in at 95 calories per 12oz can and uses stevia as a sweetener.
- Nutrl Vodka Seltzer: With 100 calories per 12oz can and 4.5% ABV, Nutrl is a popular zero-added-sugar option.
- High Noon Vodka Seltzer: Another widely available choice with 100 calories per 12oz can, made with real vodka and juice, but no added sugar.
Comparison of Popular Low-Calorie Vodka Seltzers
| Brand | Calories (per 12oz can) | ABV | Sugar (g) | Carbs (g) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cutwater Vodka Soda | 99 | 5.0% | 0 | 0 | Widely available, clean, crisp flavors |
| Canteen Vodka Soda | 99 | 5.0% | 0 | 0 | 0g sugar and carbs in vodka soda line |
| Sunny D Vodka Seltzer | 95 | 4.5% | <1 | <1 | Naturally sweetened with stevia |
| Nutrl Vodka Seltzer | 100 | 4.5% | 0 | 0 | Made with real vodka, seltzer, and real juice |
| High Noon Vodka Seltzer | 100 | 4.5% | <1 | <1 | Made with real vodka and real juice |
| Actual Vodka Seltzer | 70* | 4.2% | 0.3 | 0.6 | *Calories per 300mL can (slightly smaller serving) |
What to Look For When Choosing a Low-Calorie Option
- Prioritize Zero or Low Sugar: The easiest way to spot a lower-calorie option is to find brands that advertise zero grams of sugar. Sugar adds unnecessary calories that don't come from the alcohol itself.
- Scrutinize the Ingredients: A true vodka seltzer will list vodka as its alcohol base. Be aware that many hard seltzers use a fermented sugar base instead, which may contain different sugar and calorie levels. Vodka-based options tend to have a cleaner taste and a more consistent calorie profile.
- Check the Alcohol By Volume (ABV): A higher ABV often translates to more alcohol and, therefore, more calories. While some higher ABV options exist (like Truly Unruly at 8% and 160 calories), most low-calorie vodka seltzers hover around 4.5% to 5% ABV.
- Be Mindful of Serving Size: Always compare calories based on the serving size, typically 12 ounces in the U.S. Some brands may report lower calories for a smaller, non-standard can size.
- Consider Homemade: If you have control over the ingredients, a DIY vodka soda is foolproof. Use a high-quality vodka, plain club soda (which has zero calories), and your choice of fresh citrus or muddled fruit for flavor.
Making Your Own Ultra-Low-Calorie Vodka Seltzer
For ultimate control over calories and ingredients, crafting your own vodka seltzer is the best method. This allows you to avoid any potential artificial sweeteners and control the portion of alcohol.
Here’s a simple recipe:
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour 1.5 oz of your favorite vodka.
- Top with plain, unflavored club soda or sparkling mineral water, both of which are zero-calorie.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon, lime, or grapefruit juice for a natural burst of flavor.
- For extra flavor and presentation, garnish with a citrus wedge, cucumber slices, or a sprig of mint or rosemary.
This simple formula ensures you're only consuming the calories from the pure vodka, plus a negligible amount from the fresh citrus. It's a refreshing, crisp, and incredibly low-calorie drink that is easy to customize.
The Verdict: Which is the Lowest-Calorie Vodka Seltzer?
While some international brands like Actual Vodka Seltzer boast calorie counts as low as 69 calories in a smaller can, the easiest and most accessible option for a truly lowest-calorie vodka seltzer is one you make yourself. A vodka soda with plain club soda offers the cleanest, most minimalist profile, with calories coming only from the alcohol itself.
For those seeking the convenience of a canned option, brands such as Cutwater Vodka Soda and Canteen Vodka Soda are the top choice for zero-sugar, zero-carb vodka seltzers, reliably providing 99 calories per 12oz can. Other popular options like Nutrl and High Noon follow closely at 100 calories. The best choice ultimately depends on your preference for homemade versus convenience, but in either case, prioritizing zero-sugar, spirit-based options is the key to minimizing your calorie intake.
For more insight into the calories in various alcoholic beverages, consider visiting the Healthline guide on low-calorie drinks.
