Calories in Red Wine: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Red wine is one of the most widely enjoyed alcoholic beverages in the world, made from fermented dark-skinned grapes. A standard 5 oz glass of red wine at around 13% ABV contains approximately 125 calories, with the majority coming from alcohol and a small amount from residual sugars. Red wine also provides trace amounts of iron, potassium, and antioxidants such as resveratrol.

Calories by serving size:

Nearly all of the calories in red wine come from alcohol itself, which provides 7 calories per gram. Dry reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir tend to have less residual sugar than sweeter varieties such as Port or Lambrusco, which can add 50 or more extra calories per glass.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many calories are in a glass of red wine?

A standard 5 oz glass of red wine contains approximately 125 calories. The exact count can vary slightly depending on the specific varietal and its alcohol content, with higher-ABV wines like Zinfandel or Shiraz reaching closer to 130-140 calories per glass.

Is red wine lower in calories than white wine?

Red wine is very similar to white wine in calorie content — roughly 125 calories versus 121 calories per 5 oz glass. The small difference comes from red wine generally having slightly higher alcohol content. Sweeter dessert wines of either color will have noticeably more calories due to residual sugar.

Is red wine heart-healthy because of resveratrol?

Red wine contains resveratrol, a polyphenol antioxidant found in grape skins that has shown potential cardiovascular benefits in laboratory studies. However, the amount of resveratrol in a glass of wine is relatively small, and major health organizations caution that the risks of alcohol consumption can outweigh any potential benefits. Moderate consumption is generally defined as up to one glass per day for women and up to two for men.

How do dry and sweet red wines compare in calories?

A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir typically contains 120-130 calories per 5 oz glass with less than 1 gram of sugar. Sweet red wines such as Port, sweet Lambrusco, or late-harvest Zinfandel can contain 180-250 calories per glass due to significantly higher residual sugar content, sometimes 8-12 grams per serving.

Does drinking wine make you gain weight?

Wine contributes calories that can lead to weight gain if they push you above your daily calorie needs. A single glass of red wine at 125 calories is moderate, but the calories add up quickly with multiple glasses, and alcohol can also stimulate appetite and reduce inhibitions around food choices. Tracking wine calories as part of your overall intake is the most reliable way to enjoy wine without unwanted weight gain.