Keto Alcohol is a term for low-carb alcoholic beverages, which can be consumed in moderation while living a keto way of life. That’s because lots of the classic drink options, including beer, sugar-packed wines, spirits, and cocktails, are filled with sweeteners and carbs, which can quickly hurtle you out of ketosis. But when it comes to keto-friendly drinks, all the focus is on spirits and low-to-no carb options.
Clear spirits like vodka, gin, tequila, rum, and whiskey are naturally free of carbs, so they are a great keto alcohol choice when mixed with sugar-free mixers like soda water, water with lemon or lime, or flavored sparkling water. Dry wines, white or red, and champagne are also relatively low in carbs (2 grams per glass); sweeter wines (champagne has 4 grams) fall somewhere in between. Light beers and “keto-friendly” hard seltzers are also options with fewer carbs than standard beer.
The trick with alcohol on keto is moderation and attention to mixers. Avoid high-sugar sodas, fruit juices, and syrups; you simply dilute the carb water, and sugar is not all that great for you in the first place. Instead, infuse drinks with fresh herbs, citrus zest, or sugar-free flavor drops.
Alcohol is not forbidden while following the ketogenic diet, but it’s best to drink in moderation and be conscious of the effects it may have on your body and weight-loss goals. Still, having keto alcohol alternatives means you can have fun and show up at social events without going off track.
Keto Alcohol Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set your glass in the freezer for 5 minutes, or fill with ice water while you prepare
- Pour1.5 oz vodka, gin, or tequila into the glass using a jigger
- To get a nice cold, refreshing base, fill your glass halfway with ice cubes
- Float sparkling water or club soda on top. Stir gently
- Mix in cucumber slices or a squeeze of lemon. Sweeten with a touch of stevia, if desired
- Serve immediately, enjoy cold
Notes
Flavour Profile of Keto alcohol
- Clean & Neutral- Vodkas, gins, and tequilas, on the other hand, are clear, light and mild-tasting so they are perfect for keto cocktails.
- Warm & Smooth- Whiskey, bourbon and rum add a warming, smoky or subtly sweet finish.
- Dry & Crisp- (Yes, even those dry reds and whites) These wines (white or red) can have flavors that range from fruity to earthy to citrus with a sharp finish that is low in sugar.
- Lightly Bitter or Hoppy- Lower-carb beers offer some malt or hop bitterness to provide the slightest balance to the unrelenting sweetness.
Keto alcohol Nutrition and Calories
| Type | Serving Size | Calories | Carbs (Net) | Notes |
| Vodka, Gin, Rum, Tequila, Whiskey | 1.5 oz (shot) | 95–105 kcal | 0 g |
Pure spirits = carb-free
|
| Dry Red Wine | 5 oz glass | 120 kcal | 3–4 g |
Fruity, earthy, low sugar
|
| Dry White Wine | 5 oz glass | 115 kcal | 2–3 g |
Crisp, citrusy, refreshing
|
| Champagne/Brut | 5 oz glass | 95 kcal | 1–2 g | Very dry, bubbly |
| Light/Low-Carb Beer | 12 oz can | 95–100 kcal | 2–3 g |
Crisp, mild malt flavor
|
FAQs
Q1. Is alcohol allowed on keto?
A1. Yes—in moderation, and choose low-carb options like spirits, dry wine, or light beer.
Q2. Which alcohols have 0 carbs?
A2. Vodka, gin, tequila, rum (unsweetened), and whiskey.
Q3. Can alcohol kick me out of ketosis?
A3. It doesn’t contain carbs (if you choose wisely), but your body burns alcohol before fat, which can slow fat-burning temporarily.
Q4. What’s the best keto-friendly wine?
A4. Dry red wines (like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot) or dry white wines (like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio).
Q5. Is beer keto-friendly?
A5. Regular beer isn’t (10–15g carbs per can), but light/low-carb beers (2–3g carbs) are fine.
Hi, I’m Candice Knauer!
I’m passionate about creating delicious, healthy meals that make the keto lifestyle simple and enjoyable. What started as my personal journey into low-carb cooking has grown into a collection of recipes that I love sharing with others who want to feel their best while still enjoying great food.