Cocktail ABV: Why a Mixed Drink Is Weaker Than the Bottle
The bottle percentage is only the starting point. Once mixer joins the glass, the alcohol spreads across a larger volume and the percentage falls.
What is the Cocktail ABV Calculator?
Mixing spirits with juice or soda lowers the alcohol percentage, and this calculator finds the final strength from the spirit volume, its ABV, and the mixer volume. It assumes the volumes add together, which is close enough for home drinks. Drink responsibly and never drive after drinking.
How to use it
- Enter the spirit volume and its ABV.
- Enter the mixer volume.
- Click Calculate ABV for the final strength.
Worked example
50 ml of 40 percent spirit mixed with 150 ml of mixer gives a 200 ml drink at 10 percent ABV, containing 20 ml of pure alcohol.
What is the ABV of 50 ml of 40 percent spirit with 150 ml of mixer?
10 percent, because 20 ml of pure alcohol is spread across 200 ml of drink in total.
Frequently asked questions
Does ice change the ABV?
Yes, as ice melts it adds water and dilutes the drink further, so the served strength falls over time.
What counts as one standard drink?
It varies by country. Check your local guidance rather than assuming one glass equals one standard drink.