Calories in Sauvignon Blanc

How many calories are in Sauvignon Blanc?

One of the most popular white grapes in the world, Sauvignon Blanc is a great choice for those counting calories as this dry, average ABV varietal is one of the best calorie choices in the world of wine. However, if the Sauvignon Blanc is part of a Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc blend in a sweet wine like Sauternes, or a Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough then it can be one of the very worst choices as a glass of Sauternes of 175ml would have around 200 calories whereas a 175ml glass of Marlborough, New Zealand dry Sauvignon Blanc would have closer to 140 calories and 100 calories in a 125ml glass. But what are calories in wine? Let's deep-dive into the how, what and why of calories in Sauvignon Blanc.

What are calories?

Calories are a measure of energy that our bodies use to function. They are the fuel that powers our activities, from walking to running to lifting weights. Calories are an important part of a healthy diet, as they provide the energy we need to stay active and healthy. The word ‘calorie’ is derived from the Latin word ‘calor’, which means ‘heat’. This is because one calorie is the amount of energy required to raise the temperature of one gram of water by one degree Celsius. When it comes to food, a calorie is the amount of energy that is contained in the food.

The number of calories in a food item is usually listed on the nutrition facts label. Different types of food contain different amounts of calories. For example, a gram of fat contains nine calories, while a gram of carbohydrate or protein contains four calories. The amount of calories that a person needs depends on their age, gender, activity level, and weight. Generally, adults should consume between 2000 and 3000 calories per day. However, this number can vary depending on an individual’s lifestyle and goals.

When it comes to weight loss, calories are key. To lose weight, you need to create an energy deficit, which means that you need to burn more calories than you consume. This can be done by eating fewer calories, exercising more, or a combination of both. It is important to remember that not all calories are created equal. Eating healthy, nutrient-dense foods is key to staying healthy and achieving your weight loss goals. Eating too many processed and sugary foods can lead to weight gain, as well as other health problems. Calories are a measure of energy and an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Knowing how many calories you need and where to get them from is essential for weight maintenance and overall health.

What creates calories in wine?

When it comes to the calories in wine, there are a few different things that can affect the number of calories in a glass of wine. The main contributing factor is the type of grape used to create the wine. Grapes contain natural sugar and the more sugar in the grapes, the higher the calorie count in the wine. This is why many sweet wines (who are NOT fermented dry) have a higher calorie count than dry wines. The amount of alcohol in the wine will also affect the number of calories it contains.

The higher the alcohol content, the more calories there are. This is because alcohol itself is a calorie-dense substance. In addition to the grapes and alcohol content, the type of fermentation process used to make the wine also plays a role in how many calories it contains. If a wine is fermented for a longer period of time, more of the natural sugars from the grapes are converted into alcohol, which increases the calories. Finally, the way in which the wine is stored can also affect the number of calories it contains. If the wine is stored in a warm, humid environment, the sugar in the wine can convert to alcohol at a faster rate, which will increase the number of calories in the wine.

How many calories in a glass of wine?

When it comes to drinking wine, one of the most common questions asked is, “How many calories are in a glass of wine?” Unfortunately, the answer isn’t a simple one-size-fits-all. Depending on the type of wine, the size of the pour, and the alcohol content, the calorie count can vary significantly. When it comes to calorie counts, it’s important to remember that each 125ml glass of wine contains roughly 120-150 calories. However, this can vary depending on the type of wine you’re drinking. For example, a glass of red wine generally has more calories than a glass of white wine. This is because reds tend to have higher alcohol content than whites. It’s also important to note that the sweeter the wine, the more calories it contains. This is because sweet wines often contain more sugar than their drier counterparts.

Another factor that can impact the calorie count of a glass of wine is the size of the pour. A smaller pour (125ml) will generally have fewer calories than a larger pour (175ml). As a general rule, the larger the pour, the more calories it will have. This is because the higher volume of wine will contain more calories. Finally, the calorie content of a glass of wine can also vary depending on how much alcohol it contains. Generally speaking, the higher the alcohol content, the more calories there will be. This is because alcohol contributes a significant number of calories to wine.

In summary, the amount of calories in a glass of wine can vary significantly depending on the type of wine, the size of the pour, and the alcohol content. As a general rule, a 175ml glass of wine contains between 120-150 calories. However, this can vary significantly depending on the factors listed above. When in doubt, it’s always best to check the calorie count of the wine you’re drinking.

Riesling - A 125ml glass has around 110 calories in Riesling
Sauvignon Blanc - A 125ml glass has around 100 calories in Sauvignon Blanc
Cabernet Sauvignon - A 125ml glass has around 100 calories in Cabernet Sauvignon.
Merlot - A 125ml glass has around 110 calories in Merlot
Chardonnay - A 125ml glass has around 100 calories in Chardonnay
Pinot Noir - A 125ml glass has around 110 calories in Pinot Noir

How many calories in a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc?

A standard bottle of Sauvignon Blanc contains about 740 calories. This means that the average glass of Sauvignon Blanc contains about 120 calories. But, it’s important to note that there is some variation among different types and brands of Sauvignon Blanc. Some can contain as few as 100 calories, while others can contain as many as 150 calories. When considering the calories in a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc, it’s also important to think about the alcohol content. Most bottles of Sauvignon Blanc contain about 12% alcohol by volume (ABV). This means that the calories from the alcohol in a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc account for about 437 calories per bottle. It’s also important to consider the sugar content of Sauvignon Blanc. Most bottles of Sauvignon Blanc contain about 7.5 grams of sugar per liter. This means that the sugar content of a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc contributes about 60 calories.

When it comes to counting calories in a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc, it’s important to keep in mind that the calorie content can vary depending on the type and brand of Sauvignon Blanc. In general, though, a standard bottle of Sauvignon Blanc contains about 740 calories, with 437 of those calories coming from the alcohol and 60 calories coming from the sugar content. So, if you’re counting calories, it’s important to keep these numbers in mind.

Are chilled wines better for burning calories?

The body expends more calories burning warmer served wines than colder wines. Although you're not going to drink coffee hot Sauvignon Blanc just to burn a few calories (please don't), serving your wine at the ideal temperature will bring you increased pleasure, even if it doesn't burn any extra calories. Serve your Sauvignon Blanc at around 8-10°C from your wine fridge for the perfect tipple.

Does where Sauvignon Blanc is grown contribute to calories?

No. Not directly. The wine production methods, including how much residual sugar remains and if the wine spends any time in oak will contribute to the calories, however, the soil and climate itself does not impart calories if the wines are vinified totally dry. That said, a cool climate that can only produce a low ABV and ripeness like England, would naturally be less calorific.

One of the most popular and well-known regions for Sauvignon Blanc is France. In France, Sauvignon Blanc is most commonly found in the Loire Valley and Bordeaux regions, although there are also some producers in other regions. Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc is known for its light, fresh and crisp flavors, with citrus and herbal aromas. Bordeaux Sauvignon Blanc tends to be more full-bodied and complex, with flavors of stone fruit and tropical fruit, as well as some herbal and floral notes. Sauvignon Blanc has also become a popular wine in New Zealand, where it is known for its vibrant, zesty and tropical flavors.

The Marlborough region of New Zealand is particularly well-known for its Sauvignon Blanc, with its wines being characterized by intense aromas of grapefruit, passionfruit and citrus. In California, Sauvignon Blanc is produced mainly in the Central Coast and Napa Valley regions. Central Coast Sauvignon Blanc is often lighter and crisper than its counterparts from other regions, with flavors of citrus, melon and green apple. Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc tends to be more full-bodied, with flavors of tropical fruit, peach and pear. Sauvignon Blanc is also produced in South Africa, Chile, Australia and Argentina. South African Sauvignon Blanc is known for its crisp and vibrant flavors of citrus, melon and apple.

Chilean Sauvignon Blanc is often full-bodied and complex, with notes of tropical fruit and herbal aromas. Australian Sauvignon Blanc tends to be lighter and more herbal, with flavors of citrus and melon. Argentinian Sauvignon Blanc is often full-bodied and complex, with flavors of stone fruit, tropical fruit, and herbal notes. In addition to these well-known regions, Sauvignon Blanc is also produced in smaller, lesser-known wine regions around the world.

Many of these wines are made in a similar style to those from France, New Zealand, and California, but they can also have unique characteristics and flavors that set them apart from the more well-known regions. No matter where it is produced, Sauvignon Blanc is a popular and versatile white wine that can be enjoyed in a variety of styles and flavors. Whether you prefer a light and crisp Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley or a full-bodied and complex Sauvignon Blanc from Napa Valley, there is sure to be a Sauvignon Blanc to suit your palate.

Calories in New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc

New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is one of the most popular, refreshing white wines around. Its crisp, dry, and aromatic with intense citrus and tropical fruit flavors. Its a great choice for any occasion and pairs well with a variety of foods. The history of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc dates back to the 1970s when the first vines were planted in the Marlborough region of New Zealands South Island. Since then, the region has become one of the worlds most renowned Sauvignon Blanc producing areas. A 175ml glass of dry Sauvignon Blanc is around 120 calories.

The Marlborough region has a unique climate that is ideal for growing Sauvignon Blanc. Its long, sunny days, cool nights, and well-drained soils provide ideal growing conditions for the grape. The combination of these conditions produces a wine that is vibrant, crisp, and intensely aromatic. New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is known for its vibrant aromas of citrus, tropical fruit, and fresh herbs. On the palate, it is dry, crisp, and refreshingly acidic with intense flavors of citrus, passionfruit, and green apple. The wine is usually light bodied and has a well-balanced acidity that makes it a great food pairing wine. When it comes to food pairing, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is an ideal choice. Its fresh and vibrant flavors are perfect for dishes that have a lot of citrus, herbs, and spice. It pairs especially well with salads, seafood, and light appetizers. When it comes to buying New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, there are a few things to keep in mind. Look for bottles labeled Marlborough or South Island as these are the regions where the grapes are grown.

The vintage or year of the wine can also be a good indicator of quality. New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc can range in price depending on its quality, so its best to shop around and compare prices. Overall, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is a great choice for any occasion. Its fresh and vibrant flavors make it an ideal food pairing wine and its crisp acidity make it a great choice for aperitifs. Whether youre planning an outdoor barbecue or a romantic dinner for two, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is sure to be a hit.

Calories in Sauternes?

Sauternes is a sweet white wine from the Sauternais region of France. It is made from grapes that have been affected by noble rot, a type of fungus that shrivels the grapes, concentrating the sugar and giving the wine a deep, complex flavor. Although Sauternes is traditionally associated with dessert wines, it can also be enjoyed as an aperitif or with savoury dishes. The most distinctive feature of Sauternes is its unique flavor profile. The wine is characterized by notes of honey, apricot, fig, and orange blossom, as well as a distinct sweetness. It has a soft, velvety texture and a long finish. A 175ml glass of Sauternes is about 200 calories.

The history of Sauternes dates back to the 16th century, when the region was first noted for its sweet wines. Over the centuries, winemakers have perfected their techniques for making the wine, and it has become an iconic symbol of French winemaking. Sauternes is made from a blend of grapes, including Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle. The grapes are harvested late in the season and must be affected by noble rot in order to qualify for the Appellation dOrigine Controlee (AOC) classification. Noble rot is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea, which affects the grapes in a specific way. It causes the grapes to shrivel and concentrate their sugars, giving the wine its unique flavor profile. The grapes are picked in several passes, with the ripest grapes chosen first. The grapes are then carefully pressed and fermented in oak barrels. The fermentation process is slow and carefully monitored, allowing the wine to retain its natural sweetness. Sauternes is best served chilled and can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of foods.

The wine pairs particularly well with foie gras, roasted poultry, and blue cheeses. It can also be enjoyed with desserts like creme brulee, biscotti, and fruit tarts. Sauternes is an elegant and complex wine that can be enjoyed by both experienced wine lovers and novices alike. Its unique flavor profile and long finish make it a special treat for any occasion. Whether youre looking for a sweet wine to pair with a savory dish or a complex aperitif, Sauternes is an excellent choice. If you're looking to lose weight or watch your waistline, perhaps a 75ml glass is a better choice.

Sarah newton

Author - Sarah Newton

Sarah Newton has worked in the wine industry for two decades holding senior positions at some of the UK wine industry's leading brands. The MD of Coolersomm, Sarah is WSET certified and our lead wine buyer too.