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Distillation Tools: Alcohol Dilution Calculator
Determine the mixing proportions of water and alcohol to hit target ABV.
Liters
Current alcohol percentage (%)
Desired alcohol percentage after dilution (%)
Formula
Water to Add = Volume × ((Current % ÷ Target %) - 1)About Alcohol Dilution
This calculator helps you determine the precise amount of water needed to dilute high-proof spirits to your desired bottling strength. Proper dilution is essential for achieving the optimal flavor profile and mouthfeel in your finished spirits.
Why Dilute?
- Flavor Development: Most spirits taste best at 40-50% ABV. Higher proof can mask subtle flavors and aromas
- Mouthfeel: The right ABV creates a smooth, balanced drinking experience without excessive alcohol burn
- Legal Requirements: Many jurisdictions require spirits to be bottled at specific ABV ranges
- Batch Consistency: Diluting to a target proof ensures every bottle has the same strength
Best Practices:
- Use Pure Water: Distilled or reverse osmosis water is recommended to avoid introducing off-flavors or minerals
- Add Water Slowly: Mix water gradually while monitoring ABV with an alcoholmeter or hydrometer
- Temperature Matters: Both alcohol and water should be at similar temperatures (around 20°C/68°F) for accurate measurements
- Rest After Dilution: Allow diluted spirits to rest for at least 24-48 hours for the alcohol and water to fully integrate
- Account for Temperature: ABV measurements can vary with temperature - use a hydrometer correction chart if needed
Common Dilution Targets:
Standard Spirits
- • Vodka: 40% ABV (80 proof)
- • Gin: 40-47% ABV (80-94 proof)
- • Rum: 40-50% ABV (80-100 proof)
- • Whiskey: 40-50% ABV (80-100 proof)
Specialty Spirits
- • Cask Strength: 55-65% ABV (110-130 proof)
- • Navy Strength: 57% ABV (114 proof)
- • Overproof: 50-75% ABV (100-150 proof)
- • Liqueurs: 15-30% ABV (30-60 proof)
Important Considerations:
- Louching Effect: Some spirits (like absinthe) will turn cloudy when diluted due to essential oils coming out of solution
- Volume Contraction: Mixing alcohol and water results in slight volume contraction - the final volume will be slightly less than the sum of parts
- Flavor Changes: Dilution can significantly alter the flavor profile, revealing or suppressing different notes
- Safety First: Always add water to alcohol, never the reverse, and mix gently to avoid splashing high-proof spirits
Pro Tips:
- Dilute in small test batches first to evaluate the flavor at your target ABV before diluting your entire batch
- Keep detailed records of your dilution ratios for future reference and consistency
- Consider the aging vessel - spirits in wood barrels will lose strength over time through evaporation (the "angel's share")
- For barrel-aged spirits, account for expected angel's share and dilute to a slightly higher proof initially