Out of Shaoxing wine, one case
Where to buy Shaoxing wine
4 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Asian grocery stores
You can buy Shaoxing wine at Asian grocery stores, specialty food stores, some major supermarkets, and online retailers. Look for brands like Pagoda, Kuaijishan, or Guyue Longshan.
- Best for —
- authentic Chinese cooking
One casethe full Shaoxing wine card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of Shaoxing wine |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Asian grocery storesauthentic Chinese cooking | See notes |
| 2 | Online retailersconvenience | See notes |
| 3 | Major supermarketsquick purchases | See notes |
| 4 | Specialty food storespremium brands | See notes |
Asian grocery stores
authentic
Best selection and most authentic brands available
- Best for
- authentic Chinese cooking, finding specific brands, bulk purchases, expert advice
H Mart, 99 Ranch, T&T Supermarket, and local Asian markets typically have the best selection.
Online retailers
varies by brand
Convenient option with wide selection and home delivery
- Best for
- convenience, hard-to-find brands, bulk orders, when local stores don't carry it
Amazon, Asian food websites, and specialty wine retailers offer good selections.
Major supermarkets
basic
Limited selection but convenient for basic needs
- Best for
- quick purchases, basic cooking needs, when other options aren't available
Walmart, Safeway, Kroger, and similar stores may carry basic brands in their international sections.
Specialty food stores
premium
Curated selection with knowledgeable staff
- Best for
- premium brands, expert recommendations, unique varieties, gift purchases
Whole Foods, specialty wine shops, and gourmet food stores may carry premium brands.
How it behaves in this recipe
- Asian markets
- Best selection, authentic brands, knowledgeable staff, competitive prices
- Online shopping
- Convenient, wide selection, home delivery, but shipping costs and wait times
- Supermarkets
- Convenient but limited selection, may not have premium brands
- Specialty stores
- Premium brands, expert advice, but higher prices and limited locations
Tips for substituting Shaoxing wine
8 tips- Look for Shaoxing wine in the alcohol section of Asian grocery stores
- Avoid 'cooking wine' versions that contain added salt - these are lower quality
- Check the alcohol content - good Shaoxing wine should be 15-20% ABV
- Look for amber-colored wine with complex, slightly sweet aroma
- Store opened bottles in the refrigerator for up to 6 months
- Buy from reputable brands like Pagoda, Kuaijishan, or Guyue Longshan
- Consider buying online if local stores don't carry good quality options
- Ask store staff for recommendations if you're unsure about brands
Notes on Shaoxing wine
- If you can't find Shaoxing wine, dry sherry is the closest substitute available at most liquor stores
- Mirin can be found at most Asian grocery stores and some major supermarkets
- Rice vinegar + sugar can be made at home and works as a non-alcoholic substitute
- White wine + sugar is readily available at any grocery store with a wine section
Questions
4 questionsDo I need to be 21 to buy Shaoxing wine?
Yes, Shaoxing wine contains alcohol and requires age verification. However, some stores may not check ID for cooking wines, but it's best to be prepared with ID.
What's the difference between Shaoxing wine and cooking wine?
Cooking wine often contains added salt and preservatives, while authentic Shaoxing wine is pure rice wine. Look for brands without added salt for best quality.
Can I buy Shaoxing wine at regular grocery stores?
Some major supermarkets carry basic brands in their international sections, but Asian grocery stores typically have better selection and quality.
How much should I expect to pay for Shaoxing wine?
Prices vary by brand and location, but expect to pay $5-15 for a 750ml bottle. Premium brands may cost more, while basic cooking wines are cheaper.