What can I substitute for red wine vinegar?
Running low on red wine vinegar? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About red wine vinegar
Red wine vinegar is a sharp, tangy vinegar produced by fermenting red wine, giving it a distinctive fruity, robust flavour with a deep reddish colour. It is widely used in vinaigrettes, marinades, pickles, and Mediterranean-style dishes to add brightness and acidity. Its complex flavour profile sets it apart from milder vinegars, making it a key ingredient in both cooking and dressings.
Dairy-freeVeganGluten-freeNut-free
Dietary labels are general guidance based on typical composition. Not a guarantee — see disclaimer.
Best substitute
white wine vinegar
White wine vinegar shares a similar acidity and fruity complexity, making it the closest substitute. It lacks the red colour and is slightly milder, but works seamlessly in most recipes.
Use 1 tbsp for every 1 tbsp
View white wine vinegar substitute guide →Dairy-freeVeganGluten-freeNut-free
dressingsmarinadessaucespicklingNot suitable for: recipes needing red colour
Alternative
apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has a comparable level of acidity with a mild fruitiness, making it a solid all-purpose substitute. It has a slightly sweeter, appley note that works well in most savoury applications.
Use 1 tbsp for every 1 tbsp
View apple cider vinegar substitute guide →Dairy-freeVegan
What is red wine vinegar called in other countries?
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | red wine vinegar |
| Canada | red wine vinegar |
| New Zealand | red wine vinegar |
| United Kingdom | red wine vinegar |
| United States | red wine vinegar |
Common names for red wine vinegar
wine vinegarred vinegar