How Many Calories in Whiskey?

Whiskey, also known as whisky, is a type of distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash. It is typically aged in wooden casks, which can give it a distinct flavor and aroma. Whiskey is enjoyed by people all around the world, either on its own or as a component of cocktails.

But how many calories are in whiskey? The answer isn’t straightforward, as the number of calories in a given whiskey can vary based on factors such as the type of grain used, the aging process, and the proof (alcohol content). Here’s a closer look at the calorie content of different types of whiskey, as well as tips for incorporating whiskey into a healthy diet.

Calorie Content of Different Types of Whiskey

The calorie content of whiskey can vary significantly depending on the type. Here are the approximate calorie counts for some common types of whiskey:

Bourbon: Approximately 64 calories per 1.5-ounce serving

Scotch: Approximately 70 calories per 1.5-ounce serving

Irish whiskey: Approximately 70 calories per 1.5-ounce serving

Rye whiskey: Approximately 70 calories per 1.5-ounce serving

Blended whiskey: Approximately 70 calories per 1.5-ounce serving

It’s worth noting that these calorie counts are based on 1.5-ounce servings of 80-proof whiskey. The calorie content will be slightly higher for higher-proof whiskey and slightly lower for lower-proof whiskey. For example, a 1.5-ounce serving of 100-proof whiskey would contain approximately 85 calories.

It’s also worth noting that the calorie content of whiskey can vary based on the specific brand and the specific type of grain used in the mash. For example, a bourbon made with corn as the primary grain will have a different calorie content than a bourbon made with wheat or rye as the primary grain.

Calorie Content of Whiskey Cocktails

Many people enjoy whiskey in cocktails, such as whiskey sours, Old Fashioneds, and Manhattans. The calorie content of these cocktails will depend on the ingredients used and the portion sizes.

For example, a whiskey sour made with 2 ounces of whiskey, 1 ounce of lemon juice, and 1 ounce of simple syrup (a mixture of equal parts sugar and water) contains approximately 240 calories. An Old Fashioned made with 2 ounces of whiskey, 1 teaspoon of simple syrup, and a dash of bitters contains approximately 150 calories. And a Manhattan made with 2 ounces of whiskey, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, and a dash of bitters contains approximately 190 calories.

It’s worth noting that these calorie counts are based on 2-ounce servings of 80-proof whiskey. The calorie content will be slightly higher for higher-proof whiskey and slightly lower for lower-proof whiskey.

Incorporating Whiskey into a Healthy Diet

While whiskey can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet, it’s important to consume it in moderation. The American Heart Association recommends that men limit their alcohol intake to no more than two drinks per day, and that women limit their alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day.

A drink is defined as 1.5 ounces of 80-proof whiskey, 5 ounces of wine, or 12 ounces of beer. This equates to approximately 64 calories for whiskey, 100 calories for wine, and 150 calories for beer.