Low Calorie Alcohol – What to Choose and How to Drink Smart

Trying to keep your intake low without giving up a night out? You don’t need to ditch the fun. There are plenty of booze options that stay light on calories while still tasting great. Below you’ll find the top picks and simple tricks to keep your drink list waist‑friendly.

Top Low‑Calorie Alcohol Picks

Light wines. A standard glass of dry white or rosé usually holds about 110‑120 calories. Look for labels that say “light,” “extra‑dry,” or “low‑alcohol.” They have less residual sugar and lower alcohol by volume, which means fewer calories per pour.

Low‑calorie vodka. Pure, unflavored vodka is a champ at about 65 calories per 1‑oz shot. Mix it with soda water, a squeeze of citrus, or a splash of diet tonic and you stay under 100 calories per cocktail. Brands that market “zero‑calorie” are usually just vodka with a zero‑calorie mixer, so you can keep it cheap and simple.

Light beers. Many breweries now produce “lite” versions that hover around 90‑100 calories per 12‑oz can. If you prefer a hoppy profile, go for a session IPA labeled “low‑ABV.” The lower alcohol content directly cuts the calorie count.

Low‑calorie spirits. Gin, tequila, and rum are similar to vodka—about 65 calories per shot when neat. Choose clear versions without added sugars. A gin‑and‑tonic with diet tonic or a tequila sunrise made with fresh orange juice and a splash of agave can stay under 120 calories.

How to Keep Your Drinks Light

Portion control matters. Stick to a single standard shot (1 oz) of spirit and a 5‑oz glass of wine. Anything larger adds up fast. Use a jigger or count the pour in your head—roughly one-third of a regular shot for a “light” mixed drink.

Choose mixers wisely. Soda water, sparkling water, and diet sodas add zero or almost zero calories. Fresh herbs, cucumber slices, and a dash of bitters give flavor without the sugar bomb you’d get from regular soda or juice.

Skip the sugary syrups. If a recipe calls for simple syrup, reduce it by half or swap in a splash of stevia‑based sweetener. A little lemon or lime zest can brighten the drink and make up for the missing sweetness.

Plan your night. Have a glass of water between drinks; it keeps you hydrated and reduces the total number of alcoholic servings you’ll have. Plus, you’ll look cooler ordering a water while everyone else is reaching for the next round.

Remember, the goal isn’t to eliminate calories completely—it’s to enjoy a drink without blowing your daily budget. By picking low‑calorie options and using smart mixers, you can raise a glass, stay on track, and still have a great time.