A 5-ounce (150 ml) pour of dry red typically lands around 120-125 calories, almost all of it from alcohol rather than sugar. That number scales quickly: finish the whole 750 ml bottle and you’re in the 600 to 650 calorie range.
Why Calories Vary
- Alcohol content (ABV) – Every 1 % rise in ABV adds roughly 15 calories per 5-ounce serving. A 12 % ABV Beaujolais (115 cal) drinks leaner than a 15 % ABV Napa Cabernet (160 cal).
- Residual sugar – Most dry reds clock in under two grams of sugar per glass, so sweetness plays a minor role compared with alcohol.
- Serving size creep – Large Bordeaux-shaped stems hold 20+ ounces; a “generous splash” can double the calories without looking excessive.
Quick Reference
| Pour | 12 % ABV | 13.5 % ABV | 15 % ABV |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 oz (150 ml) | ~115 cal | ~135 cal | ~160 cal |
| 750 ml bottle | ~600 cal | ~675 cal | ~800 cal |
Dry, Off-Dry, Sweet Does It Matter?
Dry reds (think Chianti Classico or Rioja) register similar calorie counts per ABV because fermentation has converted most grape sugar into alcohol. Off-dry or fortified styles Port, late-harvest Zinfandel carry extra residual sugar, nudging totals higher.
Collector-Friendly Tips
- Note the ABV before you pull a cork. Higher-octane wines pack more flavor and more calories worth remembering if you’re hosting a multi-bottle tasting.
- Use smaller stems for verticals. A universal 12-ounce glass encourages 3-ounce pours that keep both palate and calories in check.
- Hydrate between pours. Alternating water with wine helps pace both calories and alcohol absorption, letting the nuance of each bottle shine through.
The Takeaway
Calories in red wine come down to two things collectors already pay attention to: alcohol level and serving size. Keep an eye on both, and you can explore everything from elegant, low-alcohol Gamay to powerhouse Amarone without second-guessing the numbers.
