Substitute for Red Wine Vinegar

Perfect red wine vinegar alternatives for dressings, marinades, and Mediterranean dishes. Maintain that robust tang.

Cooking Updated: September 27, 2025 vegetarian vegan gluten-free

Quick Answer

The best substitutes for red wine vinegar are: Balsamic Vinegar (Diluted), White Wine Vinegar + Red Wine, Apple Cider Vinegar. Each works differently depending on your recipe needs.

Red wine vinegar adds tangy depth and complexity to dressings, marinades, and Mediterranean dishes. These substitutes maintain that essential acidity with complementary flavors.

Red Wine Vinegar’s Character

Red wine vinegar provides moderate acidity with wine’s complexity and subtle fruitiness. It’s more robust than white wine vinegar but not as sweet as balsamic.

Matching Acidity and Complexity

Look for substitutes that provide both tang and depth. The best alternatives combine acidity with wine notes or complementary complex flavors.

Substitute for Rice Vinegar - Mild vinegar alternative
Substitute for Lemon Juice - Acidic citrus option
Substitute for Wine in Cooking - Wine alternatives for cooking
Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar - Complex vinegar (if available)

Educational Disclaimer: This information is for cooking and baking purposes only.

All Substitutes at a Glance

Substitute	Ratio	Best For	Notes
Balsamic Vinegar (Diluted)	2 tsp balsamic + 1 tsp water = 1 tbsp red wine vinegar	salad dressings, Italian dishes, marinades	Sweeter than red wine vinegar. Dilute to reduce intensity.
White Wine Vinegar + Red Wine	2 tsp white wine vinegar + 1 tsp red wine = 1 tbsp red wine vinegar	cooking, deglazing, when you have both	Creates similar flavor profile and color. Heat to cook off alcohol.
Apple Cider Vinegar	1:1 replacement	marinades, barbecue sauces, casual cooking	Fruitier flavor but similar acidity. Works in most applications.
Sherry Vinegar	1:1 replacement	Spanish dishes, sophisticated applications, nutty flavor	More complex flavor. Excellent for gourmet cooking.
Lemon Juice + Red Wine	1 tbsp lemon juice + 1 tsp red wine = 1 tbsp red wine vinegar	fresh flavor, when wine available, bright acidity	Provides acidity with wine notes. Use cooking wine if needed.
Tamarind Paste + Water	1 tsp tamarind + 2 tsp water = 1 tbsp red wine vinegar	Asian fusion, unique flavor, complex acidity	Different flavor profile but interesting substitute. Strain if desired.