Which whiskey has the lowest carbs? A guide for low-carb diets

November 3, 2025 •

4 min read

When it comes to distilled spirits, virtually all pure, unflavored whiskeys contain zero carbohydrates per serving due to the distillation process. This makes the question of which whiskey has the lowest carbs much simpler than with other alcoholic beverages like beer or wine, which retain sugar after fermentation.

Quick Summary

Pure, unflavored whiskeys contain zero carbohydrates due to the distillation process, making all types equally low-carb. The carb content only increases when flavored varieties or sugary mixers are used. Moderate consumption is key for dietary goals.

Key Points

Zero Carbs: All pure, unflavored, distilled whiskey contains zero carbohydrates due to the distillation process.
Distillation is Key: The distillation process removes the fermentable sugars from the grains, resulting in a carb-free spirit.
Avoid Flavored Whiskeys: Flavored whiskeys (e.g., honey, cinnamon) and liqueurs contain added sugars and should be avoided on low-carb diets.
Choose Low-Carb Mixers: To keep drinks carb-free, use mixers like club soda, diet soda, or sugar-free tonic water instead of sugary juices or sodas.
Consider Caloric Content: Despite having zero carbs, whiskey still contains calories from alcohol, so moderation is essential for weight management.
All Types Are Equal: Whether it's bourbon, scotch, or rye, the carb count for pure, unflavored varieties is the same: zero.

All Unflavored Whiskey Has Zero Carbs

For those on a keto or low-carb diet, the answer to the question "Which whiskey has the lowest carbs?" is a happy one: all pure, distilled whiskeys are essentially carb-free. The reason for this lies in the process of distillation. While whiskey begins as a mash of fermented grains rich in starches and sugars, the distillation process separates the alcohol and water from these solids. This leaves the final spirit with a negligible, if not entirely absent, amount of carbohydrates or sugars.

This applies across the board to different types of whiskey, as long as they are unflavored and straight from the barrel. Whether you prefer the caramel notes of a corn-heavy bourbon, the spicy finish of a rye, or the smoky characteristics of a peated scotch, your carb count remains at zero. This provides significant flexibility for those who want to enjoy a distilled spirit without derailing their nutritional goals.

The Carb Culprits: Flavors and Mixers

While the whiskey itself is innocent of any carbs, it's the added ingredients that can turn a zero-carb drink into a sugary trap. Flavored whiskeys, such as honey or cinnamon varieties, often have added sugars and flavorings that significantly increase their carbohydrate and calorie content. Similarly, the most common pitfall for low-carb dieters is the choice of mixer. Sugary sodas, fruit juices, and cocktail syrups are loaded with carbs and can instantly reverse any benefit of choosing a carb-free spirit.

To keep your drink carb-free, it's essential to stick to zero-carb mixers. This includes club soda, diet soda, sugar-free tonic water, or simply enjoying the whiskey neat or on the rocks. A simple splash of water or a twist of lemon or lime can also add flavor without adding carbs. The key to successful low-carb drinking is diligence in ingredient selection.

A Comparison of Carb Content

To illustrate the difference that mixing can make, here is a comparison of a serving of straight whiskey versus several common whiskey cocktails.


Drink Type	Base	Additional Ingredients	Carbs (g)	Source
Straight Whiskey	Unflavored whiskey (e.g., Bourbon, Scotch)	None	~0g
Whiskey and Diet Coke	Whiskey	Diet Coke (sugar-free)	~0g
Old Fashioned	Whiskey	Sugar cube, bitters, orange zest	~4g
Whiskey Sour	Whiskey	Sugar syrup, lemon juice	~14g
Jack and Coke	Whiskey	Regular Coke	~15g
Flavored Whiskey	Whiskey	Added sugar and flavorings	3-11g (varies)

The Role of Alcohol on a Diet

Even with zero carbs, it's important to remember that alcohol contains calories. On average, a 1.5 oz shot of 80-proof whiskey contains about 96 calories, with higher-proof spirits having more. Alcohol is processed by the liver as a priority, temporarily slowing down the metabolism of other macronutrients, including fats. This is why excessive alcohol consumption, even of a zero-carb beverage, can impede weight loss progress. Responsible and moderate drinking is always the most important factor to consider when incorporating whiskey into a nutrition plan.

Tips for Enjoying Whiskey on a Low-Carb Diet

If you want to enjoy whiskey while maintaining a low-carb lifestyle, follow these simple strategies:

Stick to the basics: Choose pure, unflavored whiskey varieties like bourbon, scotch, or rye. Avoid flavored and sweetened versions. Read the label carefully to ensure no sugars or flavorings have been added.
Embrace 'neat' or 'on the rocks': The simplest and safest way to enjoy whiskey is by itself or with ice, ensuring no carbs are added.
Use carb-free mixers: If you prefer a mixed drink, opt for club soda, diet soda, or sugar-free tonic water. A splash of lemon or lime juice is also a safe choice.
Watch your cocktail choices: Be mindful of classic cocktails that contain sugar. A homemade Old Fashioned with a sugar-free alternative or a Scotch and soda is a better choice than a sugar-laden whiskey sour.
Practice moderation: Even with zero carbs, alcohol adds calories. Be aware of your intake, as excess consumption can stall weight loss efforts and has other negative health implications.

Conclusion: Zero Carbs, Smart Choices

Ultimately, there is no single answer to "Which whiskey has the lowest carbs?" because all pure, unflavored whiskeys have the same zero-carb profile. The most important lesson for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet is that the carb content comes from what you add to the whiskey, not the spirit itself. By choosing unflavored varieties and avoiding sugary mixers, you can enjoy whiskey responsibly while adhering to your dietary goals. Always remember to prioritize moderation and be aware of the caloric impact of alcohol, even when the carb count is zero.

For more on low-carb drinking options, you can consult resources like Healthline's guide on keto-friendly alcohol choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, bourbon, like all other pure, unflavored whiskeys, is a carb-free spirit and is therefore keto-friendly. The key is to consume it without any sugary mixers.

No, flavored whiskeys, such as those with honey or cinnamon, are not carb-free. They typically have added sugars and flavorings that increase their carbohydrate content.

To make a low-carb whiskey cocktail, mix pure whiskey with carb-free options like club soda, diet ginger ale, or sugar-free tonic water. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime can also add flavor.

The carb content of a whiskey and coke depends on the coke. A classic Jack and Coke made with regular soda can contain over 15 grams of carbs. By using diet coke, you can make the drink carb-free.

Yes, it is possible. While it contains no carbs, whiskey does have calories from the alcohol. When you drink, your liver prioritizes metabolizing the alcohol, which can temporarily pause fat burning and stall weight loss.

No, the type of grain used (corn, rye, barley) does not affect the carb count in the final, distilled product. The distillation process removes the sugars and starches, leaving behind a zero-carb spirit.

While it's not a health food, some studies suggest that moderate consumption of whiskey may have antioxidant properties, but there is no conclusive clinical evidence. Any benefits are contingent on moderation and responsible drinking.