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Proof Dilution Calculator

Work backward from high-proof spirits to a lower target proof with exact water additions

Water To Add

22.00 fl oz

Final Volume

38.00 fl oz

Target ABV

40.0%

Add This Much Water

22.00

fl oz

Dilution Snapshot

Final Volume

38.00 fl oz

Current ABV

95.0%

Target ABV

40.0%

Water Ratio

1 : 1.38

Example Calculations

1Diluting 16 oz of 190 proof to 80 proof

Inputs

Current Proof190
Target Proof80
Current Volume16 oz

Result

Water To Add22 oz
Final Volume38 oz
Target ABV40%

This is a common use case for bringing neutral spirit down to standard bottling or infusion strength.

2Diluting 750 ml of 151 proof to 80 proof

Inputs

Current Proof151
Target Proof80
Current Volume750 ml

Result

Water To Add666 ml
Final Volume1416 ml
Target ABV40%

Bringing overproof rum or grain alcohol down to standard 80 proof roughly doubles the volume. This is useful for making cocktail-strength infusions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q

How do you dilute alcohol to a lower proof?

Use conservation of alcohol: the amount of pure alcohol stays the same before and after dilution. That lets you solve for how much water to add based on the current proof, target proof, and starting volume.

  • Target proof must be lower than the current proof
  • Proof is twice ABV in the US system
  • Final volume increases after water is added
Q

Can you use this for tinctures or infusions?

Yes. The same dilution math works for neutral spirits, tinctures, and infused alcohol as long as you are tracking proof and volume in the same unit system.

  • Use ounces, cups, milliliters, or liters consistently
  • Measure carefully if making repeatable batches
  • Real-world volume can vary slightly after mixing
Q

What is the difference between proof and ABV?

In the United States, proof is simply twice the ABV percentage. An 80 proof spirit is 40 percent ABV. The proof system dates back to testing alcohol with gunpowder, and the US standardized the 2x relationship in 1848.

  • 80 proof equals 40 percent ABV, the standard for most spirits
  • 100 proof equals 50 percent ABV, often called bonded or overproof
  • 190 proof equals 95 percent ABV, the highest for grain alcohol like Everclear
  • Other countries use different proof scales so always confirm the system
Q

Does the order of mixing matter when diluting spirits?

For best results, add water to the spirit gradually rather than adding spirit to water. Mix gently and let the solution rest for a day or two if possible, since alcohol and water contract slightly when combined and the final volume can be a tiny bit less than expected.

  • Add water slowly to spirit and stir gently to avoid cloudiness
  • Use distilled or filtered water to avoid off-flavors
  • Let the blend rest 24 to 48 hours for the most accurate final proof
  • Volume contraction is small but can matter for precise batching

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Last Updated: Mar 16, 2026

This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.

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