CALORIES IN ALCOHOL
Editors note: this article was updated on 4/2/23.
Which drink has fewer calories beer, wine, or liquor?
It’s not straightforward to compare the calorie content of beer, wine, and liquor, as they come in various types and serving sizes. However, here’s a general comparison:
- Beer: A standard 12-ounce (355 ml) serving of beer typically contains 150-200 calories, depending on the type of beer. Light beers may have fewer calories, around 90-120 calories per serving.
- Wine: A 5-ounce (150 ml) serving of wine contains about 120-130 calories for red wine and 110-120 calories for white wine. Sweeter wines may have more calories due to the higher sugar content.
- Liquor: The calories in liquor mainly come from the alcohol content, and a standard serving size is usually 1.5 ounces (44 ml). An 80-proof (40% alcohol by volume) liquor like vodka, whiskey, or gin has around 96 calories per serving. Mixers and other ingredients in cocktails can increase the calorie count significantly.
In summary, liquor has fewer calories per standard serving size than beer and wine, but this may vary depending on the type of drink and any mixers used. It’s essential to consider the total calories consumed when factoring in serving sizes and mixers.
Now let’s go over some popular types and drinks and see how they actually compare.
Here’s a list of some popular types of drinks from least to most calories per drink:
| Drink Type | Drink Name | Calories per Serving | Serving Size | Related Facts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liquor | Vodka (80-proof) | 96 | 1.5 oz (44 ml) | Often used in mixed drinks, low in calories when consumed straight |
| Liquor | Whiskey (80-proof) | 96 | 1.5 oz (44 ml) | Can be enjoyed straight, on the rocks, or in cocktails |
| Liquor | Gin (80-proof) | 96 | 1.5 oz (44 ml) | Commonly used in cocktails like martinis and gin and tonics |
| Beer | Light Beer | 90-120 | 12 oz (355 ml) | Lower in calories and alcohol content |
| Wine | White Wine | 110-120 | 5 oz (150 ml) | Richer flavor pairs well with red meat |
| Wine | Red Wine | 120-130 | 5 oz (150 ml) | The most common beer type, has a mild flavor |
| Beer | Lager | 150-170 | 12 oz (355 ml) | The most common beer type has a mild flavor |
| Beer | Ale | 150-200 | 12 oz (355 ml) | Heavier and more flavorful than lagers |
| Wine | Dessert Wine | 160-200 | 3.5 oz (100 ml) | Sweeter and higher in calories, served in smaller portions |
| Beer | IPA (India Pale Ale) | 180-240 | 12 oz (355 ml) | Hoppy, bitter flavor, higher alcohol content |
Finally, the calorie content of different alcoholic drinks differs according to the variety and serving amount. In general, liquor contains the fewest calories per normal dose, followed by wine and beer. However, it is critical to consider the particular drink and brand, as calorie content can vary considerably. Light brews and dry wines have fewer calories than their normal equivalents, whereas cocktail mixers and components can significantly boost the calorie tally. It is critical to be conscious of the calories and possible health consequences of alcohol intake when selecting a drink. Moderation and mindful intake can allow you to appreciate your favored drinks while leading a healthy lifestyle.
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