Can you substitute white vinegar for wine in making pickles?

While you can technically use white vinegar as a substitute for wine in making pickles, it will alter the flavour profile significantly. Wine, especially red wine, imparts a depth of flavour and complexity to pickles that cannot be easily replicated with vinegar alone. Red wine adds a natural sweetness, fruitiness, and subtle tannins that complement the sourness of the vinegar and the spices used in pickling. Additionally, the alcohol content in wine helps in preserving the pickles and preventing spoilage.

If you still prefer to use vinegar instead of wine, consider using a combination of different vinegars, such as white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and rice vinegar, to create a more complex flavour profile. You can also add other ingredients like fruit juices, spices, or herbs to enhance the flavour of the pickles. Experimenting with different ingredients and proportions will help you find the desired flavour balance for your homemade pickles.