Cocktail Dilution Calculator

Estimate the water dilution and final volume of a cocktail based on the mixing method and duration.

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Final Cocktail Volume

5.00 oz

Water from Dilution1.00 oz
Final ABV24.0 %
Final Volume (mL)148 mL
View formula & how it works →

How to Calculate Cocktail Dilution

Formula

Water Added = Initial Volume x Dilution %

Final Volume = Initial Volume x (1 + Dilution %)

Final ABV = Initial ABV x Initial Volume / Final Volume

Dilution Percentages

  • Built/poured (no ice mixing): 5-15%. Ice melts slowly in the glass.
  • Stirred (30-45 seconds with ice): 20-30%. Chills efficiently with moderate dilution.
  • Shaken (10-15 seconds with ice): 30-40%. Introduces air and chills rapidly.

    • Dilution is essential to a balanced cocktail. It softens the alcohol burn and integrates flavors. Under-diluted cocktails taste harsh; over-diluted ones taste watery.

    Example Calculation

    A stirred 4 oz cocktail with 30% ABV.

    1. 01Water added = 4 x 0.25 = 1 oz
    2. 02Final volume = 4 x 1.25 = 5 oz
    3. 03Final ABV = 30 x 4 / 5 = 24%
    4. 04The cocktail is 5 oz at 24% ABV after stirring.

    Frequently Asked Questions

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