Alcohol Dilution Calculator
Calculate how to dilute spirits and liquors to your desired strength
Initial Spirit
Target Dilution
Dilution Results
Water to Add: 1.375 L
Final Volume: 2.375 L
Pure Alcohol: 0.950 L
Dilution Ratio: 1.375:1
About the Spirit Dilution Calculator
This calculator helps distillers, mixologists, and spirits enthusiasts accurately determine the amount of water needed to dilute high-proof spirits to a desired ABV (Alcohol By Volume) percentage. Whether you’re proofing down moonshine, creating a custom spirit blend, or preparing for barrel aging, our tool provides precise measurements for perfect results. For more comprehensive alcohol calculations, visit our main ABV calculator collection.
How to Use the Alcohol Dilution Calculator:
- Enter your starting volume and select the appropriate unit of measurement
- Input your starting ABV percentage (the current alcohol strength)
- Specify your target ABV percentage (the desired final strength)
- Enter the water temperature for more accurate calculations
- Click “Calculate Dilution” to get your results
Understanding Your Results:
- Water to Add: The precise amount of water needed for dilution
- Final Volume: The total volume after dilution is complete
- Pure Alcohol: The amount of pure ethanol in your final solution
- Dilution Ratio: The ratio of water added to initial spirit volume
The Science Behind Dilution
When diluting spirits, we’re maintaining the same amount of pure alcohol while increasing the total volume with water. The formula used is:
Water to Add = (Pure Alcohol ÷ Target ABV%) – Initial Volume
Where Pure Alcohol = Initial Volume × Initial ABV%
Why Dilution Temperature Matters
When diluting high-proof spirits, water temperature affects the final volume due to thermal contraction. Cold water and alcohol mixing can create an exothermic reaction, potentially altering your final ABV slightly. Professional distillers typically use room temperature water (around 20°C/68°F) for consistent results. Learn more about temperature effects in spirit production from the Distillery Trail’s guide to temperature effects.
Common Dilution Targets
Different spirits typically have standard ABV percentages:
Whiskey/Bourbon
40-50% ABV
(80-100 proof)
Vodka
37.5-50% ABV
(75-100 proof)
Rum
37.5-60% ABV
(75-120 proof)
Gin
37.5-47% ABV
(75-94 proof)
Liqueurs
15-30% ABV
(30-60 proof)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I dilute my spirits in batches?
Yes, the calculator works for any volume. For larger batches, ensure you have a suitable container that allows for proper mixing after adding water.
Should I use distilled water for dilution?
For best results, use filtered or distilled water to avoid introducing unwanted minerals or impurities to your spirits.
Will diluting affect the flavor of my spirit?
Yes, dilution not only reduces alcohol content but can also open up different flavor profiles in your spirit. Many connoisseurs find that proper dilution enhances certain flavor notes. Check out Whisky Science’s research on dilution and flavor perception for in-depth analysis.