Dilution

Calculate how much water to add to bring down a parameter — alcohol, SO₂ or gravity — using the dilution relationship C1V1 = C2V2. Remember dilution reduces flavour, colour and aroma proportionally.

Calculate how much water to add to reduce a parameter through dilution.

Parameter to reduce

Making this as

Volume

Unit

Current % ABV

Target % ABV

Water to add

2.65 L

New total volume

25.65 L

⚠Dilution affects all wine components proportionally. Adding water to reduce alcohol will also dilute flavour, colour, and aroma.

Track this in your batch log

MakeWine is a free winemaking app — log additions, lab readings and fermentations, and get a deterministic assistant. No card required.

Frequently asked questions

How do I lower the alcohol in my wine?

Add water using V_water = V × (current ÷ target − 1). Enter current and target ABV and your volume above. Note this dilutes everything, not just alcohol.

Related calculators

ABV Calculator SO₂ Addition Acid Adjustment

Calculations are estimates based on standard winemaking formulas (Henderson–Hasselbalch for SO₂, Duncan & Acton for wine ABV, standard addition rates). Always verify critical additions with a reference or lab analysis. The decision and responsibility for any addition rest with you.