An energy curable lithographic ink composition having an asymptotic relative viscosity of about 0.4 to about 1.5 and a water up-take number of at least about 30%. Also disclosed is a method of improving various rheological properties and increasing the water window of an energy curable lithographic ink by varying the composition of the ink in order to result in an asymptotic relative viscosity of about 0.4 to about 1.5 and a water up-take number of at least about 30%. A method of identifying and selecting an energy curable lithographic ink composition having optimal press performance is also disclosed.