Introduction
If you’re a fan of refreshing alcoholic beverages, you’ve likely heard of Twisted Tea. This hard iced tea has gained massive popularity for its smooth, sweet taste and moderate alcohol content. But if you’re watching your calorie intake, you might wonder: How many calories are in Twisted Tea?
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down Twisted Tea calories, compare different flavors, and provide tips for enjoying this drink without derailing your diet.
What Is Twisted Tea Calories?
Twisted Tea is a malt-based alcoholic iced tea produced by the Twisted Tea Brewing Company, a subsidiary of Boston Beer Company (makers of Samuel Adams). It’s known for its crisp, tea-forward flavor with a hint of sweetness and a mild alcoholic kick.
Popular Twisted Tea Flavors
- Original Hard Iced Tea – The classic flavor
- Half & Half (Lemonade + Iced Tea) – A sweeter, tangier option
- Raspberry – Fruity and refreshing
- Peach – A summery, juicy twist
- Tropical – Exotic and sweet
Each flavor varies slightly in calories, sugar content, and alcohol percentage, which we’ll explore next.
Twisted Tea Calories: Full Breakdown
One of the biggest concerns for health-conscious drinkers is the caloric content of alcoholic beverages. Below, we’ll examine the Twisted Tea calories across different flavors and serving sizes.
1. Twisted Tea Original (5% ABV)
- Serving Size: 12 oz (1 can)
- Calories: 220
- Carbs: 32g
- Sugar: 24g
- Alcohol: 5%
This is the standard version, offering a balanced mix of sweetness and tea flavor.
2. Twisted Tea Half & Half (5% ABV)
- Serving Size: 12 oz
- Calories: 230
- Carbs: 33g
- Sugar: 26g
- Alcohol: 5%
The lemonade addition makes this slightly higher in calories and sugar than the original.
3. Twisted Tea Raspberry (5% ABV)
- Serving Size: 12 oz
- Calories: 220
- Carbs: 32g
- Sugar: 24g
- Alcohol: 5%
Similar to the original but with a fruity raspberry twist.
4. Twisted Tea Peach (5% ABV)
- Serving Size: 12 oz
- Calories: 230
- Carbs: 33g
- Sugar: 26g
- Alcohol: 5%
Peach flavor adds a touch more sweetness, increasing calories slightly.
5. Twisted Tea Tropical (5% ABV)
- Serving Size: 12 oz
- Calories: 230
- Carbs: 33g
- Sugar: 26g
- Alcohol: 5%
A blend of tropical fruits makes this one of the sweetest and highest-calorie options.
How Do Twisted Tea Calories Compare to Other Alcoholic Drinks?
If you’re counting calories, it helps to see how Twisted Tea stacks up against other popular drinks:
| Beverage | Serving Size | Calories | Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) | ABV (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twisted Tea Original | 12 oz | 220 | 32 | 24 | 5% |
| Bud Light | 12 oz | 110 | 6.6 | 0 | 4.2% |
| White Claw | 12 oz | 100 | 2 | <1 | 5% |
| Mike’s Hard Lemonade | 12 oz | 220 | 32 | 30 | 5% |
| Margarita (Classic) | 8 oz | 275 | 35 | 30 | 15% |
Key Takeaways:
- Twisted Tea calories are similar to other flavored malt beverages like Mike’s Hard Lemonade.
- It’s higher in carbs and sugar than light beers or seltzers.
- If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, hard seltzers or light beers may be better.
Does Twisted Tea Have Sugar?
Yes! One of the reasons Twisted Tea is so tasty is its sugar content. A 12 oz can contains 24-26g of sugar, depending on the flavor.
Is Twisted Tea Keto-Friendly?
Unfortunately, no. With 32-33g of carbs per can, Twisted Tea isn’t suitable for a keto or low-carb diet.
Tips for Enjoying Twisted Tea Without Overdoing Calories
If you love Twisted Tea but want to manage your calorie intake, try these smart drinking tips:
1. Opt for Smaller Servings
- Choose an 8 oz pour instead of a full 12 oz can to cut calories.
2. Alternate with Water
- Drinking water between alcoholic beverages helps reduce overall intake.
3. Choose Lower-Calorie Mixers
- Mix half a can of Twisted Tea with sparkling water for a lighter drink.
4. Balance with Exercise
- A 30-minute walk can burn roughly 150-200 calories, offsetting one drink.
5. Try Light Beer or Hard Seltzer Alternatives
- If calories are a major concern, switch to low-carb options occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Final Thoughts: Should You Drink Twisted Tea?
Twisted Tea calories are moderate compared to cocktails but higher than light beers or seltzers. If you enjoy its sweet, refreshing taste, drinking in moderation is key.
For those tracking calories, consider:
- Sticking to one serving
- Choosing lower-sugar flavors
- Balancing with physical activity
