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Molecular dynamics simulations have been used to explore solvent–solute intermolecular nuclear Overhauser effects (NOEs) on NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) signals of [val5]angiotensin dissolved in 35% ethanol–water (v/v). Consideration of chemical shift, coupling constant and intramolecular NOE data suggest that conformations of the peptide are adequately sampled by simulations of up to 0.6 μs duration. Calculated cross relaxation terms at 0 and 25 °C are compared to experimental values and to terms predicted using a particulate model of the solvent. Many calculated solvent NOEs are in agreement with experimental results; disagreements are particularly striking for hydrogens of the Phe8 residue of the peptide. Calculations show that individual molecules of either solvent component can spend many ns in association with the peptide but dipolar interactions within such a complex account for only a few percent of an observed cross relaxation rate. Most parts of the peptide interact selectively with ethanol. Diffusion of both solvent components is slowed when they are close to the peptide. Solvent–solute cross relaxation terms for acetic acid in the same solvent obtained from simulations agree with experiment. Preferential interactions of solvent molecules with acetic acid are largely absent, as are effects of this solute on solvent diffusion rates.