Cheers! A Gluten-Free Guide to Alcohol, Parties, and Dining Out

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.

Is Alcohol Gluten-Free?

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.

Are There Any Risks with Distilled Alcohol?

Even though distilled spirits are considered gluten-free, a few concerns still come up. Let's explore the facts, and maybe calm your worries:

• Flavored Spirits: Some worry that flavored vodkas or spiced rums could have gluten added after distillation. Major brands like Smirnoff, Captain Morgan, and Bacardi state their flavored products do not contain gluten. Any gluten-containing ingredient would have to be listed on the label.
• Cross-Contact in Facilities: Distilleries using gluten-containing grains follow strict hygiene protocols. At time of writing, I've found no documented cases of cross-contact causing gluten reactions in distilled alcohol.
• Mash Added Back In: A common concern is that some whiskeys may add mash (which contains gluten) after distillation. I've found no instance of a manufacturer doing this. Jim Beam Devil’s Cut adds barrel-extracted whiskey, not mash, to the final product. Major brands like Canadian Club, Crown Royal, Wild Turkey, and Knob Creek don’t add mash back in at all.
• Caramel Coloring: I've heard concern about the addition of caramel coloring. Agencies like the FDA and Health Canada consider caramel color gluten-free, unless wheat is declared on the label.²

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.

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Which Alcoholic Drinks Are Gluten-Free?

Here’s a quick guide to which drinks are naturally gluten-free, and which ones you should approach with caution:

1. Spirits (Hard Liquor)

Most pure distilled spirits are gluten-free, even if they’re made from gluten-containing grains. This includes:

Vodka Gin Rum Tequila

Brandy Whiskey Bourbon

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 

2. Wine

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

4. Beer

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.

5. Cider

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

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Ordering Gluten-Free Drinks at Bars, Parties, and Restaurants

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:

Tips for Ordering at a Bar or Restaurant

Photo by Alyona Yankovska on Unsplash

Stick to Simple, Pure Spirits:

I often choose basic liquors like vodka, rum, or tequila mixed with soda, soda water or a splash of juice. Simple is safer!

Ask About Mixers:

Many bars use pre-made mixers, which can sometimes contain gluten. I always ask if they’re using fresh ingredients or house-made syrups.

Be Specific with Your Questions:

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.

Choose Wine or Cider When Available:

Wine and most hard ciders are generally gluten-free and an easy, no-stress option. Remember to check the label on the cider.

Skip the Beer Unless You’re Sure:

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.

Tips for BYOB Parties and Backyard BBQs

 Bring Your Own Favorite:

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.

Pre-mix a Signature Cocktail:

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.

Don’t Be Shy About Asking:

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!

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Looking for More Tips About Dining Out and Attending Parties?

You've got the alcohol part handled, but what about the food?  To explore further see my:

Gluten-Free Restaurant Dining Guide

Gluten-Free Barbecue Guide

Gluten-Free Holiday Guide

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Shop the 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.

Wine Totes

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.

What's the Best Thing About Wine? It's Gluten-Free.

Wine, because Gluten-Free is exhausting!

Wine Makes Me Happy, Because it's Gluten-Free

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Frequently Asked Questions About Gluten-Free Alcohol

Q:  Is whiskey gluten-free?

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.

Q: Is bourbon gluten-free?

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.

Q: Is Canadian Club gluten-free? What about Crown Royal?

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.

Q:  Is vodka gluten-free?

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.

Q: Is rum gluten-free?

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.

Q:  Is gin gluten-free?

A: Yes, gin is gluten-free by distillation—even if it’s made from wheat or barley.

Q:  Is tequila gluten-free?

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.

Q: Can celiacs drink beer?

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]

Q: Is wine gluten-free?

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]

Q: Is cider gluten-free?

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]

Q: Can celiacs drink alcohol?

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!

Q: What alcohol should celiacs avoid?

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.

Conclusion: Enjoying Life, Gluten-Free

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.

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