Skip to content

Best Cooking Wines of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels

Last Updated:

Save
Share

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Cooking wines are a popular ingredient in many kitchens. These wines are specifically made for cooking and are not meant for drinking. They add flavor, depth, and complexity to dishes like sauces, stews, and marinades. Cooking wines are made from a variety of grapes and are often fortified with brandy or other spirits to increase their flavor profile. They are also salted to make them shelf-stable and to enhance their cooking properties. Cooking wines come in both red and white varieties, and can be found in most grocery stores. They are a great addition to any home cook's pantry.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Cooking Wines

#TOP 1

Soeos Shaoxing Rice Wine, 21.64 fl oz

Soeos Shaoxing Rice Wine, 21.64 fl oz Cover

Soeos Shaoxing Wine, Shaoxing Rice Wine, Chinese Cooking Wine, Rice Cooking Wine, Shaoxing Wine Chinese Cooking Wine, Shao Hsing Rice Wine, 21.64 fl oz (640ml),1 Pack, Regular Cooking Wine

Soeos Shaoxing Rice Wine is widely used in every Chinese restaurant to add authentic flavor to any Asian dish. It can bring out the full flavors of stir-fries, soups, marinades, and elevate pan-fried dumplings with just a few splashes. The wine should be used when the temperature in the pot is the highest during the cooking process. SOEOS is a well-known spice and herb brand that ensures expertly produced fresher ingredients for every kitchen.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Authentic Shaoxing rice wine
  • Deep, complex umami flavor
  • Quality packaging, sturdy glass bottle
  • Great value for price
  • Versatile for various dishes

What We Don't Like

  • Salted cooking wine taste

What Customers Say

"The Soeos Shaoxing Rice Wine has become an absolute staple in my kitchen. I really appreciate the sturdy glass bottle and quality packaging, which keeps the wine fresh and aromatic. The smooth, nutty flavor brings out the best in my stir fries, marinades, and braised dishes. My husband insists on using it for his General Tso's Chicken, and we both notice the added depth and rich umami. For the price, it's an excellent value. Highly recommend for anyone who loves authentic Chinese cooking!"

"I turn to this Shaoxing wine for all my Asian recipes, from fried rice to kung pao chicken. It’s essential for achieving that authentic restaurant flavor at home. The bottle is a good size and lasts a long time, and I find the two-pack a great deal. This is already my second purchase!"

"This is a quality Chinese cooking wine that delivers exactly what you'd expect from a salted Shaoxing wine. Every bottle I've ordered has arrived intact, sealed, and without leaks. Compared to others, I think it's a fairly priced option."

#TOP 2

52USA Mirin Cooking Wine 16.9 OZ

52USA Mirin Cooking Wine 16.9 OZ Cover

52USA Mirin Cooking Wine, Authentic Japanese Seasoning for Sauces, Marinades, and Glazes, 16.9 FL OZ Bottle

The 52USA Mirin Cooking Wine is a great addition to your kitchen if you enjoy Japanese cuisine. It brings an authentic taste to your dishes, making sauces, marinades, and glazes more flavorful. You can also use it to enhance salad dressings, sushi rice, or ramen noodles, adding a special touch to everyday meals. Made with natural sugar, this mirin offers a healthier option with less sugar and fewer calories, helping you cook with better ingredients. Plus, the convenient 16.9-ounce bottle size fits perfectly in your kitchen for easy access whenever you need it.

9.7
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Great value for price
  • Excellent taste and flavor
  • Versatile for Asian recipes
  • Low alcohol presence when cooked
  • Less sugar than other brands

What We Don't Like

  • Strong taste for some dishes

What Customers Say

"I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and affordability of this Mirin cooking wine. As someone who enjoys making Asian dishes, I've found it to be a fantastic ingredient that I'll definitely buy again."

"After using this cooking wine in a variety of Asian-inspired meals, I was impressed by the complex flavor it brought to every dish. As a non-drinker, I also appreciated that the alcohol content cooks off quickly, leaving just the rich taste. It's become a household favorite for us."

"I've tried a few different cooking wines, but this one stands out for its strong taste and lower sugar content compared to others. It works well in my recipes and I like the flavor profile."

#TOP 3

52USA Shaoxing Cooking Wine

  • 52USA
  • 00810049180423
  • yellow
52USA Shaoxing Cooking Wine Cover

52USA Shaoxing Cooking Wine 21.64 Fl Oz, Missing Secret Ingredient Chinese Cooking Wine, Shaoxing Wine

52USA Shaoxing Cooking Wine is an authentic Chinese rice wine that adds a distinct flavor and aroma to dishes. It is a famous variety of huangjiu, fermented from rice, and originates from the Shaoxing region in China. 52USA Shaoxing wine is commonly used in Chinese restaurants for almost every savory dish. However, it contains wheat.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Authentic Chinese flavor
  • Enhances homemade dishes
  • Balanced, not overly salty
  • Good bottle packaging
  • Great value for price

What We Don't Like

  • Strong aroma

What Customers Say

"I never realized what my homemade Chinese meals were missing until I started using this cooking wine. It delivers a depth of flavor and authenticity that makes my dishes taste just like my favorite takeout. I always keep a bottle on hand now."

"After searching everywhere locally, I finally found this organic Shaoxing wine. It’s now a staple in all my Asian cooking for its excellent taste and quality. Truly a great addition to my pantry."

"This cooking wine has become my secret weapon for Chinese recipes. The aroma and taste bring back childhood memories of traditional dishes, and it’s perfect for everything from stir-fries to marinades."

#TOP 4

Soeos Mirin Rice Cooking Wine

Soeos Mirin Rice Cooking Wine Cover

Soeos Mirin, Japanese Cooking Wine, 16.9 fl oz (Pack of 1), Mirin Rice Wine, Authentic Natural Sugar Sweet Rice Cooking Wine for Cooking, Condiments, Seasoning Homemade Sauces, Japanese Seasoning

Soeos Mirin is an essential ingredient for your Japanese cooking needs. This rice wine, sweeter than sake, enhances a variety of dishes, from marinades to sauces. Made with premium short-grain rice and all-natural sugar, it guarantees high quality in every drop. The beautiful, BPA-free plastic bottle not only protects the flavors but also makes pouring and resealing easy. With Soeos, your satisfaction is a priority, so you can feel confident in your purchase and cooking adventures.

9.4
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Enhances Asian dishes flavor
  • Convenient for non-Asian markets
  • Good value and quality
  • Versatile in recipes
  • Not overly sweet

What We Don't Like

  • Less sweet than expected
  • Higher price than grocery store

What Customers Say

"I've started using this during my Chinese cooking phase, and it really brings out that distinctive, delicious flavor you get in restaurant dishes. I use it in marinades, dressings, and even as a condiment!"

"Living far from any Asian markets, I found this extremely convenient and totally worth the price. It’s my go-to for dishes like Galbi-jjim and Jjim dak, adding just the right touch of flavor without being overly sweet."

"This is a great addition to a variety of Asian recipes. I was surprised at how many ways I could use it to add brightness to my meals."

#TOP 5

Soeos Mirin Japanese Cooking Wine

Soeos Mirin Japanese Cooking Wine Cover

Soeos Mirin Japanese Cooking Wine, 16.9 fl oz (Pack of 2), Authentic Natural Sugar Sweet Rice Cooking Wine for Cooking, Condiments, Seasoning Homemade Sauces, Japanese Seasoning

Soeos Mirin Japanese Cooking Wine, made with premium short-grain rice and granulated sugar, is a versatile ingredient used in a variety of foods and culinary preparations. It adds a sweet and acidic taste to food and gives it a glossy finish. The BPA-free plastic bottle is designed to protect the delicate flavors of the mirin while being easy to pour and re-seal. It can be used as a marinade for meats, fish, poultry, and tofu, as well as a salad dressing. Soeos offers a satisfaction guarantee.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Balanced sweetness and umami
  • High quality and authentic taste
  • Versatile for various recipes
  • Good value for the price
  • Convenient packaging

What We Don't Like

  • Contains added sugar and salt
  • Slightly salty for some tastes

What Customers Say

"As someone who loves Japanese cooking, I found this mirin to be a fantastic addition to my kitchen. The sweetness is well-balanced and really boosts the umami in my dishes without being overpowering. I especially appreciate how it works in teriyaki sauces and marinades, and the bottle is a great size for regular use. For the price, it's a solid value and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a quality cooking wine."

"This was my first time trying any kind of cooking wine, and I was genuinely surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The flavor is smooth and subtly sweet with a hint of saltiness, reminding me of a fresh day at the beach. After tasting it, I was inspired to try making tamagoyaki for the first time, and it turned out wonderfully. Now I’m excited to experiment with it in other dishes like homemade breads and noodles."

"It's always tough to find decent mirin in stores, since most options are just glucose or corn syrup. This one is different—sweetened with powdered sugar and much closer to genuine mirin, but still affordable. I was thrilled to get a double pack for a great price, since I use it so often in stir-fries and teriyaki. I’ll definitely be ordering again."

#TOP 6

Soeos Shaoxing Cooking Wine 51.24oz (1500ml)

Soeos Shaoxing Cooking Wine 51.24oz (1500ml) Cover

Soeos Shaoxing Cooking Wine, 51.24oz (1500ml), Chinese Cooking Wine, Shaoxing Hua Diao Cooking Wine, Premium Cooing Wine for Asian-Style Cooks

Soeos Shaoxing Wine is a versatile Chinese cooking rice wine widely used in savory dishes. It adds an authentic flavor to Asian stir-frys, soups, and marinades. This cooking wine enhances pan-fried dumplings and is essential in Asian dumpling fillings, marinades for roasted meats like char siu pork, seasonings for stir-fries, and red-cooked dishes. Expertly produced by Soeos, this rice cooking wine is favored by chefs for bringing fresher ingredients to every kitchen. Soeos values customer satisfaction, ensuring your questions and concerns are addressed promptly.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Authentic Chinese flavor
  • Large, economical size
  • Enhances many Asian dishes
  • High quality packaging
  • Versatile cooking ingredient

What We Don't Like

  • Plastic bottle concerns
  • Seal difficult to remove

What Customers Say

"I love how this Shaoxing wine adds an authentic Chinese taste to my home-cooked dishes. The large bottle is a great value and saves me money, especially since I use it several times a week. It’s now a staple in my kitchen."

"At first, I bought this for the affordable price, but the impressive packaging and fresh taste really won me over. The safety seal was tough to open, but that just means it’s secure. Everyone enjoyed the tamagoyaki I made with it. Definitely worth it for the quality."

"Even though I considered the glass bottle, I couldn’t pass up the value of the big plastic size. The flavor is distinctive and brings my stir fries closer to restaurant quality. I keep refilling my glass bottle for convenience and keep the rest in the fridge. This brand is way better than using Western wines for Asian recipes."

#TOP 7

Eden Mirin Rice Cooking Wine, 10.1 fl oz

  • Eden
  • 024182000481
  • No Color
Eden Mirin Rice Cooking Wine, 10.1 fl oz Cover

Eden Mirin, Premium Traditional Japanese Ajino-haha, Authentic, Sweet Rice Cooking Wine Seasoning, 10.1 fl oz

Eden Mirin Rice Cooking Wine is made of U.S.A. Lundberg organic short grain brown rice. It is an essential ingredient in dashi noodle broth, teriyaki sauce, marinades, and sushi rice. Eden Mirin is mildly sweet with a hint of sour and salty flavors. It is low in sodium and carbohydrate, fat-free and cholesterol-free. Mirin is a source of naturally occurring amino acids, organic acids, and enzymes. Eden Foods is a principled natural food company, providing healthy and nutrient-rich mirin.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Authentic ingredients
  • No added sugar or syrup
  • Enhances flavor, natural umami
  • Great for Japanese cooking
  • Secure glass packaging

What We Don't Like

  • Somewhat expensive
  • Thin, watery texture

What Customers Say

"I'm really impressed by the clean ingredients in this mirin—no added sugars or syrups, which is perfect for someone like me who watches sugar intake. It brought out amazing flavors in my ramen and the kids loved it too. Plus, the packaging was super secure, so the glass bottle arrived without a scratch. I’ll definitely be ordering again!"

"After searching everywhere for a real mirin without added salt or sugar, I landed on this one. It’s not thick like the usual ones at the Asian market, but the natural umami and flavor boost are unbeatable. Just be careful pouring since it’s more watery than expected! I shared it with my family and they really enjoyed it—we’ll be buying more for sure."

"Living in northern Ontario, I can’t find much variety in cultural foods locally, so I’m glad I found this on Amazon. Although it’s a bit pricier than grocery store options, the taste is wonderful and it’s worth every penny since I don’t have other options."

#TOP 8

Premium Shaoxing Cooking Wine 33.81 Fl Oz

Premium Shaoxing Cooking Wine 33.81 Fl Oz Cover

NPG Premium Shaoxing Cooking Wine 33.81 Fl Oz, Authentic Chinese Shao Hsing Rice Wine, Red Cooking Wine for Asian Cuisine, Essential Ingredient for Home Cooking

The Premium Shaoxing Cooking Wine is a value-sized red cooking wine used in Asian cuisine. Made of water, rice, wheat, salt, and caramel, a bottle of 33.81 FL OZ (1000ml) is 50% more than regular red cooking wine. It's a widely used ingredient in Chinese restaurants and can remove the fishy smell of the food, making dishes appetizing. It is better in marinade, richer in flavor, and has a fragrant aroma than other brands. Shaoxing Wine is a great alternative to Mirin Japanese cooking wine, which is sweeter.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Good flavor for cooking
  • Reasonable price
  • Arrives undamaged
  • Enhances Asian dishes
  • Authentic taste

What We Don't Like

  • Flavor can be strong
  • Contains some salt

What Customers Say

"I was honestly impressed by the flavor and quality of this product, especially considering the price. Even though the company is based in New York, I found the taste to be just as authentic as other brands I’ve tried. I’ve used it in several recipes and each time the flavor has been great. I didn’t experience any issues with the cap, unlike what some other people mentioned."

"When I use this, I feel like my sauces have really improved—the flavor is bold, so I try to use it sparingly. If you love making Asian food at home, this really elevates your dishes."

"I hadn’t heard of this brand before but decided to give it a shot while stocking up my new kitchen. The taste is actually better than my usual choice and the price was fair. I’d recommend it and would definitely buy again."

#TOP 9

Qian Hu Shaoxing Rice Cooking Wine

Qian Hu Shaoxing Rice Cooking Wine Cover

Qian Hu Shaoxing Wine, Chinese Cooking Wine, Rice Cooking Wine, 750 ml (25.36 fl. Oz), Flavor Essential for Asian Cuisine, Asian Flavors in Every Dish, Cooking Wine

Qian Hu Cooking Wine is an essential ingredient for anyone looking to elevate their Asian dishes. This rice cooking wine brings a distinct umami flavor that can transform your meals, making them taste just like those from your favorite Chinese restaurant. It's a traditional staple in many recipes, perfect for stir-fries, marinades, and braised dishes, giving you versatility in your cooking. Whether you're preparing savory meats or sweet sauces, this wine adds depth and a delightful aroma to your food, enhancing the overall taste experience for you and your guests.

8.7
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Enhances flavor depth
  • Authentic Asian cooking ingredient
  • Large, long-lasting bottle
  • Easy to use for beginners
  • Rich aroma and umami

What We Don't Like

  • Expiration info not immediately clear

What Customers Say

"I'm fairly new to Asian cuisine and was hesitant about using Shaoxing wine, but after trying it, I was convinced I made the right choice. It boosted my confidence in cooking, added a wonderful taste to my food, and I appreciated that the alcohol flavor cooked off nicely. I’ve already shared it with friends and family, and will definitely buy it again."

"I started making Sichuan dishes at home and noticed many recipes call for Shaoxing wine. After trying this brand, I found that it brings a rich, nutty, and umami depth to my stir-fries and marinades that’s hard to match with substitutes. Even though I’m not an expert, I’m happy with the quality and flavor it provides."

"I was hesitant to order at first because I couldn’t find clear information about the expiration date or storage instructions. Once it arrived, I saw that the bottle lasts for years and there’s no need to refrigerate after opening, making it convenient for long-term use."

#TOP 10

Eden Mirin Rice Cooking Wine 10.1 oz

Eden Mirin Rice Cooking Wine 10.1 oz Cover

Eden, Mirin Rice Cooking Wine, 10.1 oz,10.1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

The Eden Mirin Cooking Wine is a great choice if you want a natural and healthy option for your cooking. It contains no hydrogenated fats or high fructose corn syrup, which means you can avoid unhealthy additives that some foods have. You also won’t find bleached or bromated flour in this product, so it stays closer to its natural form. Plus, it is free from synthetic nitrates or nitrites, which are chemicals often added to processed foods. This makes the Eden Mirin Cooking Wine a cleaner and safer choice for enhancing your dishes with authentic flavor.

8.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • High-quality natural ingredients
  • No corn syrup
  • Authentic Japanese flavor
  • Excellent for cooking
  • Balanced taste and body

What We Don't Like

  • Higher price
  • Small bottle size

What Customers Say

"I've experimented with several brands, and this one stands out for its pure, natural ingredients—no corn syrup. The flavor is authentic and really elevates my dishes. I find it perfect for stir fry and appreciate its quality, even if it's a bit pricier."

"As someone who enjoys cooking fish and scallops, I can say this is the best mirin I've found in the U.S. The flavor is very balanced, and it makes an amazing difference in my meals. While it's not the cheapest option, the quality justifies the cost for me."

"Living in a small town, I'm thrilled to have access to this mirin online. It's well-brewed and reliable—exactly what I expect from a good mirin. Nothing fancy, just classic taste that works every time."

Cooking Wines Comparison Table

#TOP 1 Soeos Shaoxing Rice Wine, 21.64 fl oz Cover

Soeos Shaoxing Rice Wine, 21.64 fl oz

#TOP 2 52USA Mirin Cooking Wine 16.9 OZ Cover

52USA Mirin Cooking Wine 16.9 OZ

#TOP 3 52USA Shaoxing Cooking Wine Cover

52USA Shaoxing Cooking Wine

#TOP 4 Soeos Mirin Rice Cooking Wine Cover

Soeos Mirin Rice Cooking Wine

#TOP 5 Soeos Mirin Japanese Cooking Wine Cover

Soeos Mirin Japanese Cooking Wine

#TOP 6 Soeos Shaoxing Cooking Wine 51.24oz (1500ml) Cover

Soeos Shaoxing Cooking Wine 51.24oz (1500ml)

#TOP 7 Eden Mirin Rice Cooking Wine, 10.1 fl oz Cover

Eden Mirin Rice Cooking Wine, 10.1 fl oz

#TOP 8 Premium Shaoxing Cooking Wine 33.81 Fl Oz Cover

Premium Shaoxing Cooking Wine 33.81 Fl Oz

#TOP 9 Qian Hu Shaoxing Rice Cooking Wine Cover

Qian Hu Shaoxing Rice Cooking Wine

#TOP 10 Eden Mirin Rice Cooking Wine 10.1 oz Cover

Eden Mirin Rice Cooking Wine 10.1 oz

Brand Soeos 52USA 52USA Soeos Soeos Soeos Eden NPG Qian Hu Eden
Flavor Regular Mirin Regular Mirin Mirin Shao Xing Huadiao Rice Wine Mirin Rice Shaoxing Premium Cooking Wine Mirin Rice
Units 21.64 Fluid Ounces 16.9 Fluid Ounces - - - 51.24 Fluid Ounces 10.1 Fluid Ounces 1.00 Liters 25.36 Fluid Ounces 10.1 Fluid Ounces
Body Description Rice wine with a typical flavor of Shaoxing wine, made from rice, water, wheat, and salt. - Light - Full Medium - Premium Shaoxing Cooking Wine with richer flavor and larger volume than regular brands - -
FTB Score
9.8
9.7
9.5
9.4
9.2
9.0
8.9
8.9
8.7
8.5
Where to Buy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What kind of wine is good for cooking?

Dry red or dry white wines are generally the best options for cooking, unless a recipe specifically calls for a fortified or dessert wine. For example, Merlot is a good choice for red wine, while Sauvignon Blanc is a suitable option for white wine in cooking.

2. Is there a difference between cooking wine and regular wine?

Yes, there is a difference between cooking wine and regular wine. Cooking wine contains added salt and preservatives, which give it a longer shelf life. The salt is added to enhance the flavor of the dish. However, some people may find the saltiness overwhelming.

3. What is Marsala cooking wine used for?

Marsala cooking wine, a fortified wine from Sicily, is commonly used in cooking to create rich, nutty, and caramelized sauces. It adds a unique flavor to dishes and is highly regarded in the culinary world. It's important to note that Marsala wine should be from Sicily to ensure its authenticity and quality.

4. What are the different types of cooking wine?

There are several types of cooking wines, including Marsala, Sherry, Sauternes, and Rice Wine. Each type has its own distinct characteristics and is used in specific dishes. The main difference between cooking wines and regular drinking wines is the quality, as cooking wines are typically not of the same high standard.

5. Does wine matter in cooking?

Yes, wine can make a significant difference in cooking. It can enhance the flavors of a dish, whether used in a slow-cooked meaty sauce, as a splash in risotto, or as a marinade. Wine adds depth and complexity to the overall taste of the dish.

6. What can I use if I don't have cooking wine?

If you don't have cooking wine, you can use alternatives such as alcohol-free red wine, beef broth, chicken broth, red wine vinegar (mixed with water for similar flavor), cranberry juice, or pomegranate juice. These substitutes can provide similar flavor profiles in your cooking.

7. Is it OK to use cheap wine for cooking?

Using cheap wine for cooking is generally acceptable. The unique characteristics and qualities of an expensive bottle of wine may not be fully appreciated in the cooking process. Since the wine is primarily being used for cooking purposes, it is often more cost-effective to use affordable options.

8. What can be substituted for cooking wine?

If you need a substitute for cooking wine, you can use alternatives like alcohol-free red wine, beef broth, chicken broth, red wine vinegar (mixed with water for similar flavor), cranberry juice, or pomegranate juice. These substitutes can provide similar flavors in your dish.

9. Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of cooking wine?

Yes, apple cider vinegar can be a suitable substitute for white wine in cooking. It has a similar flavor profile with acidity and subtle sweetness, resembling wine. You can use the same amount of apple cider vinegar as you would use wine in a recipe.

10. Do you cook with sweet or dry Marsala?

The choice between sweet (dolce) or dry (secco) Marsala depends on the purpose. Sweet Marsala is generally recommended for baking, while dry Marsala is better for savory cooking. However, a semi-dry (semisecco) Marsala can be a versatile option for both sweet and savory dishes.

Editor's Notes

During our cooking wine research, we found 24 cooking wine products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 66,617 customer reviews through our big data system to write the cooking wines list. We found that most customers choose cooking wines with an average price of $11.52.

The cooking wines are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of cooking wines, including Soeos, 52USA, Eden, NPG, Qian Hu. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!