Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. Some people, such as those with celiac disease, cannot tolerate this protein. They must avoid all products, except those that are distilled, made with these grains. Fortunately, many types of alcoholic drink are either gluten-free or distilled so those with gluten intolerance can still enjoy an occasional drink.
Hard Alcohols
Although many hard alcohols, such as whiskey, are made with barley or rye, all hard alcohols are distilled. The gluten in these grains cannot survive the distillation process. As a result, most hard alcohols, unless they were contaminated with gluten after the distillation process, are gluten-free. This includes gin, whiskey, tequila, rum and vodka.
Flavored Liquors
Most flavored liquors are distilled, and are therefore gluten-free. However, some companies add ingredients to flavored liquors after the distillation process. If these ingredients contain gluten, the product is no longer gluten-free. If you cannot tolerate gluten, contact the manufacturer before drinking any flavored liquor to ensure the product is gluten-free.
Wine and Wine Coolers
Wine is made from grapes, or occasionally other fruits, so it is gluten-free. Wine-based wine coolers are typically gluten-free as well. However, some wine coolers are malt beverages and these types of wine coolers contain gluten. If you cannot tell if a wine cooler is wine-based from the label, avoid the product.
Sake
Although sake is a rice-based drink, it does often contain enzymes made from barley. However, the manufacturing process typically kills the barley enzymes, rendering sake gluten-free. As is the case with flavored liquors, some companies may add flavorings after the manufacturing process, so check with the manufacturer to ensure your sake is truly gluten-free.
Hard Cider
Ciders are typically made from fermented apples, pears or other fruits. Check the label for added flavorings or malt, which is typically made from barley, which contains gluten.
Gluten-Free Beer
Beer is the one alcoholic beverage that generally contains gluten, and contains wheat or other gluten-containing grains. Because it is not distilled like hard alcohol, the gluten from these grains is still present. Because of the widespread knowledge of gluten intolerance and celiac disease, many companies now make gluten-free beers. These beers are typically made from sorghum, rice or millet. Most companies clearly label their gluten-free beers as such, so avoid any beer that is not specifically labeled "gluten-free."
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