With gluten-free alcohol options for tequila, bourbon, rum, gin, vodka, and more, this is the only guide you need to navigate the liquor store on a gluten-free diet.
One of the most frustrating parts of having a gluten allergy is that it tends to get in the way of your fun. It took me a while to overcome my denial that not all bottles of vodka, gin and rum are actually gluten-free, even though in theory, like many old world fare, their original production was very much so.
In this post, I share a list of the best and most mainstream gluten-free alcohol options available, including picks for bourbon, vodka, gin, tequila and rum.
Jump to your favorite type of gluten-free alcohol:
- The Best Gluten-Free Bourbon and Whiskey Brands
- The Best Gluten-Free Rum Brands
- The Best Gluten-Free Tequila and Mezcal Brands
- The Best Gluten-Free Vodka Brands
- The Best Gluten-Free Gin Brands
- Is Campari Gluten-Free?
- Is Champagne, Wine, or Cider Gluten-Free?
- More gluten-free diet resources you’ll love
There were times in my 20’s when I was less discerning about the gluten content in my cup. I’m not alone in this, mind you. My friend Jessie is celiac, but also a good ole Southern girl. She has refused to give up whiskey and remains convinced that the distilling process removes most of the gluten to justify her continued devotion to mint juleps (among other gluten-free cocktails and drinks).
But since this post on The Best Gluten-Free Beer and Cider Brands was so popular, I thought it was worth doing some investigating. And I was surprised to find out that just because Grey Goose and Kettle are fancy, does not mean that they are wheat free. Oops.
What can make sorting through gluten-free alcohol brands tricky is that even if a spirit is made from gluten-containing ingredients, if the alcohol is processed to remove gluten, the brand can still label the product gluten free. For many who are just sensitive to gluten, it might not be a problem. But those with celiac disease should be aware that there could still be small traces of gluten.
I put together a gluten-free alcohol list below in addition to more information on whether bourbon, vodka, gin, tequila, rum, wine and champagne can be considered gluten-free across the board if you come upon a less mainstream brand.
Unless you’re in a desperate situation–like say, at a wedding after after party in a hotel room with all of your college friends trying to continue the fun with one measly bottle of vodka and no mixers except for the jar of artisan honey you received as part of your welcome bag (which, for the record, tastes really delicious with vodka)–you should be able to find at least one of these gluten-free alcohol options to sip on.
With health and hedonism,
Phoebe
GLUTEN-FREE ALCOHOL LIST
The Best Gluten-Free Bourbon and Whiskey Brands
When I first was diagnosed with a gluten allergy, I just assumed that all alcohols in the whiskey family were off limits since they are made from non-gluten-free grains. This was very upsetting, as hot toddy season is my favorite season. Luckily there are some gluten-free types of whiskey.
Is whiskey gluten-free?
Scotch and Irish whiskey are both made from 100% malted barley, as is Japanese whiskey, which was modeled off scotch. Rye whiskey is made from a mix of at least 51% rye, and usually corn makes up the remaining mash. Though it is considered a rye, there is usually much less rye and more corn used in Canadian whiskey than American whiskey.
Bourbon, on the other hand, is a type of American whiskey that is traditionally made from all corn. Unfortunately, many brands use malted barley now to form a percentage of the mix. So it’s not a foolproof gluten-free category, just a better bet than most whiskeys.
My Pick: Makers Mark is on many gluten-free lists, and though the Lapines are a devout Jack Daniels family, it’s my favorite bourbon option (don’t tell). However, Celiac.com reports that Marker’s Mark uses a small percentage of wheat in addition to corn in the mash. I’ve consumed it without reaction since the gluten protein doesn’t make it past the distillation process, but please avoid if you are very sensitive. You can find more niche small batch options that use 100 percent corn here, including Hudson Baby Bourbon.
The Best Gluten-Free Rum Brands
Is rum gluten-free?
Rum is made from sugarcane, specifically molasses, which makes all rum a naturally gluten free product. So long as you don’t opt for specific flavors, most rum brands are a safe bet for those with gluten allergies.
My Pick: Bacardi Superior. Bacardi has confirmed that their products are all gluten-free except Bacardi Silver. Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum is also confirmed gluten-free if you like dark rum.
The Best Gluten-Free Tequila and Mezcal Brands
Is tequila gluten-free?
Since it is made from agave, most tequilas are gluten-free, but beware of the cheaper stuff which, regardless of gluten, will give you a hangover akin to number 4 in this list.
Mezcal is also made from blue agave, but the process includes roasting, which is the element that gives mezcal its signature smoky flavor.
My Pick: Patron Silver is confirmed gluten-free. Jose Cuervo is also gluten-free if you’re looking for a more affordable option. And finally, for mezcal Rosaluna is certified gluten-free.
The Best Gluten-Free Vodka Brands
Is vodka gluten-free?
Traditionally made vodka from the old country was naturally gluten-free since it is distilled from potatoes. However, today, sometimes vodka is made from other ingredients which do contain gluten, like rye and barley. Gluten free vodka brands that are mainstream today are made from corn, potatoes, and rice.
My Pick: My favorite, though slightly more niche, is Tito’s Vodka which is made completely from corn. Smirnoff products are labeled gluten-free, but they are made from rye with the gluten removed. If you’re very sensitive, avoid it – especially some of the flavors. Smirnoff Ice is not gluten-free. I wish I had known this when “icing” people was a thing. That would have been an amazing get-out-of-jail free card.
The Best Gluten-Free Gin Brands
Is gin gluten-free?
Like vodka, gin used to be considered a gluten-free spirit since it is made from juniper berries. But today many modern brands use a base alcohol made from gluten containing grains and then add the juniper and botanicals later on in the distilling process. For example, Bombay Sapphire is made from wheat and rye. However since it is removed in the distillation process, they consider their product gluten-free.
Gin is one of those categories of gluten-free alcohol where you want to be mindful of your sensitivity. Some celiacs who react easily even when the protein is removed in the distillation process should steer clear of most gins.
My Pick: A Hendricks G&T with cucumber is one of the more delightful cocktails on this planet. It’s also widely available abroad, so a good option if you don’t know how to say “is this gluten-free?” in French. It is considered safe by celiac organizations, even though it is made from some rye. However if you’re looking for something made from 100 percent potatoes, try Cold River Gin. You just won’t be able to find it widely available at bars.
Is Campari Gluten-Free?
I researched this one pretty rigorously and found some contradictory information. However, this site puts Campari on their GF list. There’s nothing in the ingredients that would suggest otherwise. My mom (also GF) and I drink a lot of Campari soda before dinner. We are kind of old Italian men at heart. And we haven’t had a problem with it.
Is Champagne, Wine, or Cider Gluten-Free?
All spirits made from grapes like wine and champagne are naturally gluten-free. If you’re looking for the best biodynamic and organic wines check out my list.
Similarly most cider brands are made from apples and are completely gluten-free. Check out my list of the best gluten-free cider brands here.
More gluten-free diet resources you’ll love:
- The Best Organic Gluten-Free Pasta Brands
- 7 Common Mistakes People Make When Cooking Gluten-Free Pasta
- The Best Gluten-Free Pizza Crust Brands
- The Best Gluten-Free Bagel Brands
- The Best Gluten-Free Sauces and Condiments
- Best Gluten-Free Cracker Brands
DISCLAIMER: everyone’s sensitivities are different, so please do not take my word that you will not have a reaction to these products. Proceed with caution if you are highly allergic and test the waters to see if you can tolerate each brand. I’ve provided links where I can to others’ research on these alcohols.
What a great list, Phoebe! Always good to have a go-to in each category. Also, you must try Tito’s if you’re a vodka fan. A great, and gluten-free, choice—it’s my fave.
ooo interesting! Tito’s came up on a bunch of lists but I’d never heard of it! Will have to track some down and give it a try. Thanks, Kelly!
Yes, Tito’s is awesome! Made in Texas (my home state) and it is made out of corn, so no gluten! Also just a tip, if you want another vodka choice other than Tito’s (not as available) or Smirnoff (not as fancy), Ciroc is a great Vodka, it is made out of grapes, and is gluten free. 🙂
Thanks Ryan! Great to know
I have to second the Tito’s recommendation – I’ve never had a bad reaction to their vodka. I ask for it everywhere I go!
What about scotch?
Scotch is made from malt or grain, so it’s rarely gluten-free. Bourbon is made from corn.
byejoe is another great gluten-free drink I’ve found. It’s a brand of baijiu, the traditional alcohol of China.
interesting! what’s it like?
Bourbon is based on corn, but always has flavoring grains as well. Mostly rye, barley and wheat. Maker’s uses wheat and they are pretty proud of it because it’s a little less common.
If Markers Mark has said they are gluten free, that lends some weight to the people who say distilled beverages are ok if they don’t have gluten added after the fact.
Are kinky vodka or sweet revenge whiskey gluten free?
Thanks this is great information for celiacs who like to drink. Please keep it up
My pleasure Emilie!
Thank you for in info. I’m just trying to find things that I can have. It is a lot to take in.
I totally get it Kathy. I’ve been there. Glad to help 🙂
Per the Celiac Disease Foundation:
“Distilled beverages and vinegars
Most distilled alcoholic beverages and vinegars are gluten-free. These distilled products do not contain any harmful gluten peptides even if they are made from gluten-containing grains. Research indicates that the gluten peptide is too large to carry over in the distillation process, leaving the resulting liquid gluten-free.
Wines and hard liquor/distilled beverages are gluten-free. However, beers, ales, lagers, malt beverages and malt vinegars that are made from gluten-containing grains are not distilled and therefore are not gluten-free. There are several brands of gluten-free beers available in the United States and abroad.”
I have heard this so many times but I have celiac along with an actual allergy to gluten and I don’t care what that statement says just because of the distillation process DOES NOT make it gluten free! I have had severe reactions to them trusting that statement.
Cristy is correct, that statement sounds good in theory, but in practice it is just not true! So often I’ve had a reaction and it traces back to vinegar… or alcohol distilled from gluten grains. Like clockwork, guaranteed 100%. There is no question that some people still have gluten reactions to these products – case closed. Now we need to know why. Is there an unforseen process that carries some gluten into the final product? Or is it a cross-reactivity issue where only fragments of the protein are carried over but they are enough to trigger responses in some people despite not technically being gluten?
Yes, I agree with both of your replies Carl and Christy! I had an awful reaction to a Gin Tom Collins I thought I’d be safe with. Higher shelf liquor is “supposed” to be safer. Not always the case. Basic science of distillation doesn’t take into account a sensitivity that thousands of us suffer from. I’m so thankful for this list, and for others that have successfully researched and shared their findings so that more people are able to find safe products to enjoy! Nothing was more heartbreaking than my love for German / Belgian style wheat beers and thinking inwas never able to enjoy one again …until I found a list similar to this one but on the top 10 GF beers. I have found a Belgian one that makes me happy. So thank you Phoebe and others to helping us all enjoy ourselves safely and without the fear of an awful reaction! ♡
What brand is the GF Belgian beer you found? Beer is one of the things I miss the most and am always on the hunt for a good GF beer!
Hey Julie! Here’s my list of faves 🙂 New Planet is also good! https://feedmephoebe.com/2013/05/the-9-best-gluten-free-beers-and-ciders-for-summer/
Bourbon, like all whiskey, by definition is made from grains. Bourbon has a higher percentage of corn, but still has lots of grains in the mash. You don’t have to believe me, here’s the manufacturer’s website:
https://www.makersmark.com/sections/106-ingredients
Of the list above, the actual grain free ones are Patron tequila (or any other 100% agave tequila) and Bacardi rum (or any decent rum). Good tequila is distilled from 100% agave and will be labeled as such. Rum is distilled from sugar cane.
Makers is made from a grain and corn mash. Smirnoff is distilled from grains, and Hendrick’s is neutral grain alcohol with infused botanticals.
Right now, the only commercially available gin that isn’t made from neutral grain spirits is Monopolowa. They also make a potato vodka that’s a decent call spirit. If you want to upgrade, I recommend Tito’s (made from corn) or Ocean (made from sugar cane). Tito’s is cheaper and more available, Ocean is better tasting.
I don’t know if Campari is grain free or not, so I’m not going to run my mouth about it. However, a little quick research tells me that it is likely made from neutral grain spirits.
Sorry if this causes anyone trouble in their drink choices, but I wanted to throw in a little of the fairly obsessive research I’ve done in the subject.
Also worth noting – the presence of grain spirit in an alcohol doesn’t mean it’s not gluten free necessarily. The distillation process is believed to destroy gluten, so if that’s your issue, you’re probably ok with any distilled alcohol (80 proof or above). However, if your issue is with grain or wheat (mine is) you may not fare as well.
I hope this helps!
Makers Mark and smirnoff are not gluten free. why do you think they are?
Why would you think that Smirnoff isn’t gluten free when it’s made from corn? It is only the mixers that cause any trouble.
I agree with Jon and Rebecca, this list is not really safe for people with gluten sensitivity or celiac. Some people still react to distilled liquors (even if distillation removes the gluten) and sometimes mash is added back in after distillation. There could also be residues left over on the barrels (barrels used for whisky have usually been used for other liquors before).
Those who are not too sensitive may be able to tolerate some of these alcohols but others won’t so people should be cautious. Potato vodka, tequila and rum should all be safe, however.
Hi Jeanine, thanks for putting in your two cents! I did a lot of research for this list and did not include alcohols that were made from gluten. Smirnoff and Maker’s Mark are both made from corn and I found several sources that ok-ed them, including Celiac.com. Here are a few sources:
http://celiacdisease.about.com/od/GlutenFreeAlcohol/a/Gluten-Free-Vodka-List.htm
http://www.buzztimebusiness.com/smarts/gluten-free-trend-5-liquors-beers-bar/
There definitely is some debate over what comes out in the distillation process, but that was not the purpose of this post. Just to identify brands that claim to be 100 percent safe for people with celiac disease and gluten-sensitivity.
Thanks!
As per the Maker’s Mark official website: the ingredients of Maker’s Mark “The grain ingredients of Maker’s Mark® include corn, red winter wheat and barley. All the corn and wheat is selected from handpicked area farms that have the same sort of limestone soil content as Maker’s Mark’s® spring water.” source: https://www.makersmark.com/sections/106-ingredients?tag=Maker%27s+Mark+Recipe
PLEASE STOP PERPETUATING the idea that you are SURE these are safe: “I did a lot of research for this list and did not include alcohols that were made from gluten.” Your research failed to include the manufacturers clearly stated ingredients listed on their website. I appreciate your effort to try to help others in their quest for gluten-free alcohol, but you cannot state it is only made from corn.
Mary, I usually consider Celiac.com to be a reliable resource. I’m very sad to learn that they’ve been promoting Makers in vein. I’ve put an addendum on the post. Thanks for sharing.
All Bols liqueurs are also gluten-free and free of any cross-contamination! I have a friend who was recently diagnosed with Celiacs so I took the time to email Bols directly to make sure. Nice to know that everything but Bacardi Silver is GF. (If you can’t tell, we’re rum people 😛 )
Jack Daniels black Label and Jameson is gluten free because I have email the company’s
Have you tried @CooranbongVodka and @bomboravodka…
I have Celiac and am trying Not to stop enjoying my love for a good bourbon. This being said, I seem to get a major rash after drinking it. I’ve ruled out other culprits, does anyone else have this issue? It’s very frustrating…
I have celiac and cannot tolerate Maker’s or any other bourbon (big sigh). I can drink Carolan’s Irish Cream, without any problems. Go figure.
Helpful article, except for the use of abbreviations and not saying what the alcohol is – just brand names. Not knowing this stuff is why I rarely order alcohol. I have to spend too much time finding FOOD I can eat to look up alcohols. But thanks for the list, even if I will have to look stuff up.
i have only done research by searching the internet, but i have come to the conclusion that bacardi superior is not gluten free. bacardi products are supposedly gluten free except for bacardi silver because it is a malt based drink. according to my research, bacardi superior is bacardi silver. there is no product on their site called bacardi silver. bacardi superior is silver aged 2 years. hope this helps any other celiacs out there
Really good to know. Thanks for sharing Jay. I’ll email the brand and see if I can get to the bottom of it.
very belated response jay, but since this has come up again: I believe the product that people have warned about is a drink they used to have in their line (similar to smirnoff ice). You can see a picture of it here: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/13299761370706650/.
My research has indicated that all original unflavored rums in their line are ok. And it would make sense that a fizzy drink, similar to a smirnoff ice, which is also NOT gf, would be the only thing not to fit the bill.
Wish I’d read the comments! I saw the post, bought the rum in the picture, drank it and bloated up like I’m carrying triplets!
Do they not have a stamp on bottles like they have on food for gluten free alcohol, stating glutenfree
Thank you so much for this article. I’m extremely allergic to wheat so I appreciate this. And because being gluten free is sort of trendy a lot of people think you’re just bs’ing when you ask about that. I only drink two kinds of vodka: Chopin, which is a pure potato vodka, and Uncle Tito’s. I prefer chopin though. I did use Maker’s Mark over the holidays to baste a turkey, but I had a reaction to it after drinking it in a cocktail. So I agree with your post script for caution there.
Thanks Kellie – that’s great to know! I have heard good things about Chopin. And now since writing the original wish I had put Titos on the list. It was a newer brand when I first wrote this post, but definitely become much easier to find especially at bars in NYC. Thanks for the rec!
Try BOMBORA vodka, it is made out of grapes and is gluten free. Very good.
Never heard of it! Great to know – thanks!
Thanks for this great list! It is both well written and informative.
Very thankful there is so much information out there about GF and a healthier approach overall. Xx
I’m so glad Rachel!!
It was interesting to learn the different reactions people have to products depending on whether they have celiac or wheat or grain allergy. Ugh so much to think about. Can make you want to glare jealously at people who just simply eat!
I hear you Laurie 🙁
i thought I read that Campari’s coloring is now artificial…as a result I switched to
Violet Feres Byrrh as my apertif, which appears to be GF
good to know! it certainly doesn’t look natural 🙂
I have not seen Brandy mentioned here. It is distilled wine and a good gluten free option.
Definitely Susan!
Most vodkas are made with grain, smirinoff will make most Celiacs sick. Many wines and brandys are kept in casks sealed with a wheat based glue, unless the manufacturer will guarantee they are gluten free, they will make most Celiacs sick. Many ciders are labeled “naturally” gluten free, but are manufactured in beer breweries causing almost inevitable contamination. They will make most Celiacs sick when they drink the bottle from the contaminated batch. The only option I have found for reliable information, is to call the 800 number on the manufacturers label. If they can not tell you, without hesitation, or extraneous explanation, “the product in your inquiry is positively gluten free”, it will make most Celiac sufferers sick. We all get tired of not being able to enjoy so many different things, but getting painful diarrhea at a party, at a festival, concert, restaurant, or any public event, is a worse alternative. If you have Celiacs, websites can help in the search for more GF products, but always confirm by calling the 800 number on the label before consuming anything. I know this is not what many people newly diagnosed with Celiacs want to hear, but it is true. You may want to know, the Carlo Rossi website says their wines have no gluten products or contamination in their making, but don’t listen to me, call first!
If you all want a fabulous beer here’s a real treat for all you gluten free beer drinkers:
Lammsbräu Pure Lager, a refreshing Pilsner from Germany that is “handcrafted to remove gluten.” Unlike most gluten-removed beers, typically brewed from sorghum or millet, Lammsbräu Pure Lager is fully organic, brewed with all-natural barley, malt, and hops. I am NOT severely sensitive to gluten but I do have many of the discomforts should I intake gluten by accident. But this beer is the sooooooooooo delicious and when poured for the bottle you even get a head of foam like regular beers do. I have enjoyed drinking this with no problems. The downside is: it’s expensive!!! $5 a BOTTLE!!! So for a 6 pack you’re looking at $30!! Thats why I started by saying ‘for special occasions only. It’s soooo delicious though.
Will have to try it! thanks for the rec!
This is absolutely incorrect. Markers Mark is 100% made with red winter wheat and barley. This is misleading to the gluten free community-some people who can’t process gluten are allergic to the actual grain, such as my self. Had a bad reaction to Markers Mark last night and did some more research. Please reference these companies websites before consumption. Smirnoff is a wheat vodka. Markers Mark uses wheat and barley.
I’m a little bemused by Smirnoff, as they advertise themselves as a triple distilled all-grain vodka, all-grain being the operative word here. Gin also? As gin is made from vodka? Not all vodkas are created equal of course, some vodkas here I the u.k are made from potatoes, but pretty much all vodkas are off limits for gluten free folk. And gins. A little research people. Rums and tequilas and drinks made from base alcohol (is ammaretto) tend to be safe choices in general, but when in doubt, don’t drink it. You may be amazed to find out how many clearing agents in wine and cider also contain gluten products hidden under ‘scientific’ names. Also many beer manufacturers in the UK claim to make gluten free beer (is brewdog) but use barley as their main ingredient! Not gluten free people!
If Bacardi silver is the one with gluten, then why use the pic of bicardi silver as one of the best gluten free ones? Whoever runs this site might want to update that so it doesn’t mislead people.
Hi Kris,
“Bacardi Silver” is one of their flavored drinks. All their original unflavored rums are gluten-free, including Superior, which is pictured. “Silver’ is a specific drink, not just the type of (light) rum. Hope this helps!
https://www.gfoverflow.com/product.php?id=008491
A nice article regarding gluten free beverages. But i generally tend to have a delayed reaction to every liquor, except for absolut vodka which they say doesnt contain gluten or any other added flavours. I just love absolut vodka. People with gluten sensitivity even tends to react to caramel colouring and citric acid which are often added to whisky, vodka, tequila and most of them aren’t aware of it.
I have celiac disease and am allergic to wheat also. So no whiskey at all for me. People with celiac disease also have a lot of other allergies. So we really need to know that what we drink or eat is certified gluten free.
Maybe you were confused when you read Maker’s Mark is made with corn. Bourbon Whiskey by definition is made with at least 51% corn mash. What the other 49% is matters. For Maker’s the what isn’t corn is straight GLUTEN!!!!! It’s a shame your “extensive research” lead you so far astray. Propagating ill informed information is dangerous. You really shouldn’t label anything “gluten free” when you are “gluten sensitive” and don’t react to a product. Those with Celiac’s depend on products being literally Free of gluten.
Be a better human
Stella Artois’s as introduce A gluten-free beer now