Old Fashioned Drink Calories

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When it comes to classic cocktails, the Old Fashioned holds a special place in the hearts of whiskey enthusiasts. With its rich history and simple, yet bold flavors, it’s no wonder people have been enjoying this drink for centuries. But as with any indulgence, it’s essential to be aware of the calorie count. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Old Fashioned drink calories, so you can enjoy your favorite libation guilt-free. Plus, if you’re curious about how it compares to other whiskey-based cocktails, check out What Does an Old Fashion Taste Like and Calories in a Manhattan Cocktail.

Old Fashioned Drink Calories

An Old Fashioned typically consists of whiskey (usually bourbon or rye), sugar or simple syrup, Angostura bitters, and a twist of citrus peel. The exact calorie count can vary depending on the specific ingredients and proportions used, but on average, a standard Old Fashioned contains around 180-200 calories.

Old Fashioned Drink Calories, Where Do They Come From

The majority of the calories in an Old Fashioned come from the whiskey, which contributes approximately 110-130 calories per 1.5-ounce serving. The type of whiskey you choose can affect the final calorie count, so if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, consider exploring different varieties in What Does Whiskey Taste Like.

Next up, the sugar or simple syrup contributes around 30-50 calories per serving, depending on the amount used. If you’re looking to cut back on calories, opt for a sugar substitute or use less sugar without sacrificing taste.

The remaining ingredients, Angostura bitters and the citrus peel, add negligible calories to the drink. Bitters typically have a calorie count of 5-10 per dash, while the citrus peel contributes virtually no calories at all.

The calories in an Old Fashioned come from the alcohol, sugar, and carbohydrates in the ingredients. Whiskey is a distilled spirit that is made from fermented grains. It is a high-calorie drink, with 1 ounce of whiskey containing approximately 65 calories. Sweet vermouth is a fortified wine that is made from grapes and sugar. It is also a high-calorie drink, with 1 ounce of sweet vermouth containing approximately 70 calories. Bitters are a flavoring agent that is made from herbs and spices. They are low in calories, with 1 dash of bitters containing approximately 2 calories.

How To Reduce Old Fashioned Drink Calories

The calories in an Old Fashioned can be reduced by using lower-calorie ingredients. For example, you could use a low-sugar sweet vermouth or a diet whiskey. You could also reduce the amount of alcohol in the cocktail by using 1.5 ounces of whiskey instead of 2 ounces.

If you are watching your calorie intake, you may want to consider other cocktails that are lower in calories. For example, a vodka soda has approximately 95 calories, while a gin and tonic has approximately 140 calories.

However, if you are looking for a flavorful and satisfying cocktail, the Old Fashioned is a good choice. It is a classic drink that is sure to please. Just be sure to enjoy it in moderation!

Old Fashioned vs Manhattan

Now that we’ve covered the calories in an Old Fashioned, let’s put it in perspective. Compared to a Manhattan cocktail, the Old Fashioned is a slightly lower-calorie option. A Manhattan typically contains around 200-220 calories, which you can learn more about in our article Calories in a Manhattan Cocktail.

Here are some other things to keep in mind when it comes to the calories in an Old Fashioned:

• The size of the glass can also affect the calorie content of an Old Fashioned. A standard Old Fashioned is made with 2 ounces of whiskey, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, and 1 dash of bitters. However, some bars may serve larger or smaller cocktails. If you are trying to reduce your calorie intake, you may want to order a smaller Old Fashioned.
• The type of whiskey you use can also affect the calorie content of an Old Fashioned. Bourbon whiskey is higher in calories than rye whiskey. If you are trying to reduce your calorie intake, you may want to choose rye whiskey for your Old Fashioned.
• The garnish you use can also affect the calorie content of an Old Fashioned. A Maraschino cherry is a traditional garnish for an Old Fashioned. However, a Maraschino cherry contains approximately 20 calories. If you are trying to reduce your calorie intake, you may want to omit the garnish from your Old Fashioned.

To keep your Old Fashioned on the lighter side, remember to choose a lower-calorie whiskey, use less sugar or a sugar substitute, and be mindful of your serving size. Enjoying your favorite cocktail in moderation is key, as with any alcoholic beverage.

Conclusion

The Old Fashioned is a timeless classic with a reasonable calorie count, making it a great choice for those who love whiskey-based cocktails. By being mindful of the ingredients and serving size, you can enjoy this delightful drink without breaking the calorie bank. Cheers to savoring the rich history and bold flavors of the Old Fashioned!

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