What can I substitute for red wine?
Running low on red wine? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About red wine
Red wine is a fermented grape beverage used in cooking to add depth, acidity, and complex flavour to dishes. It tenderises meat, deglazes pans, and forms the base of many classic sauces and braises. Its tannins and fruity notes are key to dishes such as beef bourguignon, bolognese, and coq au vin.
Best substitute
beef stock with a splash of red wine vinegar
Beef stock replicates the savoury depth and colour of red wine, while a small amount of red wine vinegar mimics the acidity and complexity. This is the closest non-alcoholic substitute for braises and sauces.
Use 1 cup beef stock mixed with 1 tbsp red wine vinegar for every 1 cup of red wine
braisingsaucesdeglazingstewsNot suitable for: marinades requiring alcohol penetration
Alternative
grape juice with red wine vinegar
Unsweetened red or purple grape juice provides the fruity, slightly tannic flavour of red wine. Adding red wine vinegar balances the sweetness with acidity, making it suitable for both savoury and sweet applications.
Use ¾ cup grape juice mixed with 2 tbsp red wine vinegar for every 1 cup of red wine — reduce other sweeteners slightly if needed
braisessaucesmarinadesdessertsNot suitable for: very savoury dishes
Alternative
What is red wine called in other countries?
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | red wine |
| FR | vin rouge |
| United Kingdom | red wine |
| United States | red wine |
Common names for red wine
cooking red winedry red winered table wine