The Calories in Scotch & Wine

Wine is usually made from grapes, whereas scotch, also called scotch whiskey, is made from barley and may be blended with other grains. Both these alcoholic beverages contain calories from the alcohol. While you can incorporate alcohol into a low-calorie diet, portion control is key.

Wine and scotch can sabotage a low-calorie diet. (Image: George Doyle/Stockbyte/Getty Images)

Alcohol Calories

Alcoholic content is measured by percentages also called proof. To determine the proof of a beverage, double the number listed as the alcohol by volume on the bottle. For example, an alcoholic beverage with 40 percent alcohol is 80 proof. The lower the proof, the lower the alcohol content. Alcohol contains 7 calories per gram, fat contains 9 calories per gram, while carbs and protein contain only 4 calories per gram.

Wine

Red wine has about 74 calories in 3.5 ounces. White wine has slightly less with about 70 calories in 3.5 ounces. A serving of wine is typically 5 ounces.

Scotch Whiskey

Scotch whiskey comes in different proofs. The higher the proof, the more calories it contains. Eighty-proof scotch has about 97 calories in 1.5 ounces, while 90 proof has 110 calories.