What is the ruling on turning wine into vinegar (Khall)?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Beverages (Intoxicants)
Primary text
When wine naturally changes its constitution into vinegar on its own, it becomes pure and permissible to use. This view is narrated from Umar ibn al-Khattab, and aligns with the position of Al-Zuhri and a similar opinion held by Malik. The reason is that the cause of its prohibition (intoxication) has been removed without a new polluting factor being introduced, similar to how water purifies itself after stagnation removes its discoloration.
Supporting text
If a substance is intentionally added to the wine to cause it to turn into vinegar, it remains forbidden. Al-Shafi'i holds that if something that spoils it, such as salt, is added, it remains forbidden. If the wine is moved from sun to shade or vice versa, causing it to turn into vinegar, there are two opinions regarding its permissibility. Abu Hanifa holds that it becomes pure in both scenarios (intentional addition or movement) because the cause of prohibition is removed, similar to natural conversion. However, evidence against intentional conversion is the command of the Prophet, peace be upon him, to pour out wine belonging to orphans instead of turning it into vinegar, and his explicit statement when asked if wine should be turned into vinegar: 'No.'