Wash the red cabbage, remove the outer leaves, and cut in half before shredding thinly with a mandoline. Discard the white core.
Combine the vinegar, water, olive oil, sugar, 1 tsp salt and ¼ tsp white ground pepper in a small saucepan and bring to the boil to dissolve the sugar.
Pour the hot liquid over the shredded cabbage and toss to combine. Let it sit for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator before eating.