Cups & Temps

Red wine substitute: what to use instead

Replace red wine with an equal amount of grape juice or cranberry juice. Juice is sweeter than wine, so taste and adjust seasoning or add a splash of vinegar.

Ratios from university extension services and King Arthur Baking. Checked .

How much red wine does the recipe call for?

We scale every substitute below to your amount.

Showing amounts for Any amount red wine.

Red wine substitutes, best first

  1. For Any amount red wineSame amount grape juiceBest for: sauces, stews, braises

    Nebraska, UC; sweeter than wine, so taste and adjust.

  2. For Any amount red wineSame amount cranberry juiceBest for: sauces, marinades

    Nebraska, UC.

Why the swaps work

Wine adds acidity, fruit and depth; fruit juices supply fruit and some acidity but more sugar.

Questions people ask

What can I use instead of red wine in beef stew?

An equal amount of grape or cranberry juice (Nebraska, UC).

Is cranberry juice a good red wine substitute?

Yes, in equal amounts; it's tart and fruity like red wine.

What can you substitute for red wine in a recipe?

Replace red wine with an equal amount of grape juice or cranberry juice. Juice is sweeter than wine, so taste and adjust seasoning or add a splash of vinegar.

Sources