Sugar Wash Calculator — Gravity & ABV Estimator
Estimate the original gravity (OG), final gravity (FG), and expected ABV of your sugar wash before fermentation. Enter your sugar amount, total volume, and yeast efficiency to plan your batch.
How to use it
- Enter the amount of sugar in pounds.
- Enter the total wash volume in gallons.
- Enter your yeast efficiency percentage (85% is a good default).
- Read the estimated OG, FG, and expected ABV.
How Much Sugar Per Gallon?
A common rule of thumb is 1–1.5 lbs of sugar per gallon of water. Most distillers target 6–10% ABV in the wash for best results.
Choosing the Right Yeast
Distiller's yeast (like EC-1118 or Turbo yeast) can ferment to 18–20% ABV. Standard bread yeast works for simple washes up to 10–12% ABV. Temperature control (65–75°F) improves efficiency.
The formula
Frequently asked questions
How much sugar do I need for a 5-gallon moonshine wash?
For a 5-gallon wash targeting ~10% ABV, use approximately 8–10 lbs of sugar.
What is original gravity (OG)?
Original gravity measures the density of your wash before fermentation, indicating how much fermentable sugar is present.
What is a good ABV for a sugar wash?
Most distillers target 8–12% ABV in the wash. Higher ABV washes are less efficient to distill.
Do I need to add nutrients to a sugar wash?
Yes — sugar lacks the nutrients yeast need. Adding yeast nutrients (DAP, Fermaid) improves fermentation efficiency and reduces off-flavors.