Burgundy wine sounds fancy, right? The first time we needed it, we figured any red wine would work. Spoiler—it wasn’t quite the same.
If you’re out of Burgundy wine or just not feeling a wine run, we’ve got options. These substitutes are easy and still bring great flavor to your dishes.
We’ve tried them ourselves while cooking sauces and braises, and they didn’t disappoint. No need to skip a recipe just because you’re missing that one special bottle. This list will make it super simple to swap and keep your meal on point.
5 Easy Substitutes for Burgundy Wine
Here are some easy substitutes for Burgundy wine that you can use in your cooking and recipes:
1 – Pinot Noir
It all started when we ran out of Burgundy wine and grabbed Pinot Noir instead. Pinot Noir is the closest match you’ll find for Burgundy wine. The reason is simple—Burgundy red wine is basically made from Pinot Noir grapes. Same vibes, same rich flavor.
Use it 1:1 as a direct substitute in your recipe. It works great for sauces, stews, and slow-cooked meats. The flavors are smooth, earthy, and just bold enough to hold up in anything. Pinot Noir also adds a similar depth without overpowering your dish.
If you’re curious about other replacements, check out our full guide on Pinot Noir substitutes to keep your recipes on track.
2 – Merlot
For a substitute that’s easy to find, Merlot is the way to go. It has similar flavors and pairs well with rich meats like beef, lamb, and pork. Use it in your dishes at a 1:1 ratio for Burgundy wine.
Merlot’s taste is full-bodied and fruity, with just enough tannin to add complexity without overpowering your food. It’s widely available and affordable, making it a great option for everyday cooking.
If you want to learn more about using Merlot in your recipes, check out our Merlot substitutes guide for tips and recipe inspiration.
3 – Chianti
You’ll never believe how easy it is to swap Chianti for Burgundy wine. Chianti has a bold, earthy vibe with crisp acidity that pairs well with meats and tomato-based dishes. It’s like the reliable friend who always shows up on time.
Use it at a 1:1 ratio and you’re set. The rich, fruity flavors (think cherries and plums) bring just enough oomph without overpowering. Tannins? Moderate, so it keeps things balanced. Bonus, it’s usually affordable and easy to spot at the store—no wild goose hunts here.
Chianti works best for savory foods and baked sauces, adding depth where it counts. It’s not your fanciest option, but it gets the job done with flair.
4 – Red Grape Juice with Vinegar
This one substitute will save your recipe without breaking a sweat. Red grape juice with a splash of vinegar mimics the tangy-sweet balance of Burgundy wine. Use it at a 1:1 ratio.
The juice brings fruity notes, similar to red wine. The vinegar adds just enough acidity to keep things sharp and lively. It’s non-alcoholic and easy to find.
Great for braises, marinades, and sauces. It works best for dishes where a hint of sweetness won’t hurt. Affordable, simple, and pantry-friendly.
5 – Cranberry Juice
Last but not least, cranberry juice is your ticket to success. Use it at a 1:1 ratio and you’ll get a slightly tangy, slightly sweet flavor with just enough acidity to balance savory dishes.
Cranberry juice is easy to find and affordable—plus, it won’t add any alcohol to your dish if that’s what you’re looking for. It has fruity notes that work well in sauces and stews.
It’s also great for adding some color and depth to your recipe without changing the overall flavor too much. Plus, who doesn’t love cranberries?
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.