Living gluten-free doesn’t mean you have to miss out on life’s celebrations.
Whether you're relaxing with friends, enjoying a night out, or heading to a backyard barbecue, you’ll find plenty of safe, delicious gluten-free options to toast the moment.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through which types of alcohol are gluten-free, how to stay safe when you’re out, and some practical tips from my own experience navigating a gluten-free life after my celiac diagnosis.
Jump to the section that interests you most or scroll through for all the info.
Which Alcoholic Drinks Are Gluten-Free?
Ordering Gluten-Free Drinks at Bars, Parties, and Restaurants
If you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, the answer is: it depends on the type of alcohol and how it’s made.
Most distilled spirits are safe, even if made from wheat, barley, or rye. That’s because distillation separates alcohol from proteins like gluten, leaving the final product gluten-free.1
Malt-based drinks like beer, malt liquor, and some wine coolers may not be safe. Check the ingredients or look for a gluten-free label.
Even though distilled spirits are considered gluten-free, a few concerns still come up. Let's explore the facts, and maybe calm your worries:
In short: there is no evidence that distilled spirits cause gluten exposure, and the risk of cross-contact appears very low.
This doesn't mean I want you to be cavalier about the possibility, it exists. I just don't want you to worry unnecessarily. You have enough stress. Check labels, choose trusted brands and you'll be safe.
Here’s a quick guide to which drinks are naturally gluten-free, and which ones you should approach with caution:
Most pure distilled spirits are gluten-free, even if they’re made from gluten-containing grains. This includes:
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Be careful with coolers and pre-mixed cocktails as gluten ingredients may be added.
More Details: Is Whiskey Gluten-Free? Everything You Need to Know
Wine is made from grapes and is naturally gluten-free. Some specialty products, like flavored wines or wine coolers, may not be safe, so always double-check labels.
More Details: Is Wine Gluten-Free? What You Need to Know
Traditional beer made from barley or wheat is not gluten-free. However many breweries offer delicious options made from gluten-free grains like sorghum, rice, or millet.
Want to Explore Further: Confused about Gluten Free Beer? How to Decide What's Safe.
Most traditional ciders are made from apples or pears and are naturally gluten-free. But again, always check the label as some brands add flavorings.
Read More: Naturally Gluten-Free Cider: The Celiac Safe Happy Hour Enjoyment
Dining out or attending parties can be stressful when you’re gluten-free. With a little preparation, you can still have a great time. Here’s how I do it:
I often choose basic liquors like vodka, rum, or tequila mixed with soda, soda water or a splash of juice. Simple is safer!
Many bars use pre-made mixers, which can sometimes contain gluten. I always ask if they’re using fresh ingredients or house-made syrups.
Instead of asking, “Is this gluten-free?” — which not everyone understands — I ask about brands and what mixers are used. I may also ask to see the label on the bottle. Clear questions get better answers.
Wine and most hard ciders are generally gluten-free and an easy, no-stress option. Remember to check the label on the cider.
Some bars offer “gluten-removed” beer which is controversial. Only beers made from gluten free grains are safe for people with celiac. Better safe than sorry.
Whenever I’m invited to a party, I bring a gluten-free cider, a bottle of wine, or a small bottle of rum (my favorite spirit) with coke as a mixer. That way, I always have something safe to sip.
Sometimes I like to mix up a simple gluten-free cocktail to share — it’s a fun way to join in, and it helps educate friends and family without making a big deal out of it.
If someone offers me a drink, I politely ask about the ingredients. Most people appreciate that I’m looking out for my health — and it’s rarely as awkward as I think it will be!
You've got the alcohol part handled, but what about the food? To explore further see my:
Gluten-Free Restaurant Dining Guide
I've rounded up a few fun gluten-free finds for you or a gluten-free friend.
If you choose to purchase something through my links, I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Designed to fit a standard 750ml wine bottle, this lightweight but durable tote keeps your wine insulated and ready for a picnic, dinner party, or backyard BBQ. A perfect gift for gluten-free friends—or a treat for yourself.
Click the picture or the text to go to my store and make your purchase.
A: Yes, whiskey is gluten-free by distillation, even if it’s made from gluten grains like barley or rye. Distillation separates alcohol from proteins like gluten, leaving the final product gluten-free.
That said, if you’re extremely sensitive or have a history of reacting to whiskey, trust your body. I avoid whiskey because it doesn't sit well with me.
A: Yes, bourbon is a type of whiskey and thanks to distillation, is usually gluten free. It's primarily made from corn, so if you're avoiding spirits from gluten grains this may work for you.
Look for 100% corn based bourbons like Hudson Bay Bourbon or Maker's Mark.
A: Yes. These two brands come up all the time, especially in Canada. Both are gluten-free by distillation. Neither Canadian Club nor Crown Royal adds gluten-containing ingredients after distillation.
Yes, vodka is gluten-free, even if made from wheat. Distilled spirits are gluten-free and safe for celiacs.
I personally go for potato or corn-based vodkas to be extra safe.
A: Yes, rum is made from sugarcane or molasses, so it’s naturally free of gluten. This is why rum is my go-to for mixed drinks.
A: Yes, gin is gluten-free by distillation—even if it’s made from wheat or barley.
A: Yes, 100% agave tequila is naturally gluten-free.
For this reason, tequila is another go-to for me. I always look for “100% agave” on the label to be sure there are no additives.
A: Unfortunately, most beers are not safe for people with celiac disease. Traditional beers are made from barley or wheat and are not distilled, so the gluten stays in the final product.
There are gluten-free beers made from gluten free grains. These are safe for celiacs. I avoid gluten-removed beers because there's still a risk of trace gluten.
[For more on this see my Gluten-Free Beer Guide]
A: Yes, wine is naturally gluten-free — red, white, rosé, sparkling — they’re all safe.
Be careful of wine coolers or flavored wines. Some are made with malt liquor, which contains gluten.
[For more about wine see my Gluten-Free Wine Page]
A: Most ciders are made with apples or pears and are naturally gluten-free. Always read labels as some ciders have added flavors which may contain gluten.
[For more info on cider see my Gluten-Free Cider Guide]
A: Yes, people with celiac disease can drink alcohol—as long as it’s gluten-free. Naturally gluten-free options include wine, cider, gluten-free beer, and distilled spirits. It’s just about knowing what’s safe and what to avoid. I share my favorites throughout this guide!
A: Avoid beer made from barley or wheat and be cautious with pre-mixed drinks and malt-based coolers.
Some liqueurs and pre-mixed drinks may contain gluten. I’ve learned to ask questions and stick with simple, whole spirits or clearly labeled options.
Living gluten free doesn’t mean missing out on the fun. I love a quiet glass of wine, celebrating with friends over cocktails, or sipping cider a barbecue, and so can you.
It all comes down to being informed, asking the right questions, and trusting your gut—literally and figuratively.
As someone who's lived gluten-free for over a decade, I know how overwhelming it is at first. But you’ve got this—and I’m here to help every step of the way.
Hi, I'm Patty — a celiac since 2012, culinary school grad, and the creator of Naturally Gluten Free.
I earned my Culinary Skills diploma from George Brown College with a focus on nutrition and cooking for special diets. After years of living with celiac disease, I know how confusing alcohol labels can be — especially when you're just trying to enjoy a safe drink with friends.
I created this guide to help you feel confident and informed. Every recommendation is based on personal experience, brand research, and reliable sources — no guesswork, no fluff.
If you’re ever unsure about a product, reach out! We’re in this together.
Home > Gluten Free Alcohol
Sources
1. Canadian Celiac Association. (2021, December 22). Alcohol labelling in Canada. Canadian Celiac Association. Retrieved March 31, 2023, from https://www.celiac.ca/food-labelling/alcohol-labelling-in-canada/
2. Is caramel color gluten-free? Beyond Celiac. (2020, August 17). Retrieved March 31, 2023, from https://www.beyondceliac.org/gluten-free-diet/is-it-gluten-free/caramel-color/#:~:text=Yes%2C%20caramel%20color%20in%20North,labels%20just%20to%20be%20sure.