Alcohol Dilution Calculator
Find water to dilute spirits to a target proof.
Dilute a high-proof spirit to a target strength.
How the Math Works
The Alcohol Dilution Calculator uses a straightforward proportional formula to determine how much water to add to spirits to achieve a desired proof. The calculation relies on the principle that the amount of pure alcohol remains constant before and after dilution. Starting with your current volume (V) and current proof, the formula final = V × current ÷ target calculates the total volume needed to reach your target proof. The water required is simply the difference between this final volume and your original volume (water = final - V).
Practical Applications
To use this calculator practically, simply enter your current spirit volume and proof, along with your desired target proof. For example, if you have 12 ounces of 100-proof whiskey and want to dilute it to 80 proof, the calculator determines you need 3 additional ounces of water for a total volume of 15 ounces. This ensures you maintain the correct alcohol-to-water ratio while achieving your exact proof target without guesswork.
Day-to-Day Use
This calculator is invaluable for home bartenders, cooking enthusiasts, and anyone who needs precise alcohol measurements. Whether you're crafting cocktails that require specific proof levels, creating extracts for cooking, or adjusting spirits for medicinal purposes, the calculator eliminates costly mistakes and wasted ingredients. It's particularly useful when scaling recipes or ensuring your homemade infusions meet desired potencies.
Worked example
750 ml at 60% → 40%: add 375 ml water.
FAQ
Use distilled water?
Yes — for clarity and taste when proofing spirits.