Are you someone who is looking for gluten-free and sugar-free alcohol options?
Whether you have Celiac disease, a gluten sensitivity, or just want to avoid these ingredients for health reasons, it can be challenging to navigate the world of alcohol.
But fear not, there are plenty of options out there that are safe for you to enjoy.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best gluten-free and sugar-free alcoholic beverages available, so you can sip with confidence at your next gathering or night out.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of alcohol that won’t harm your body.
What Alcohol Has No Wheat Or Sugar?
When it comes to alcohol that is free of wheat and sugar, there are a few options to consider.
Firstly, distilled spirits such as brandy, rum, and tequila are naturally gluten-free. Look for plain bottles and avoid flavored options, as they may contain gluten or added sugars.
Vodka can also be a safe option, but it’s important to choose brands that are made from potatoes, grapes, or corn instead of wheat. Some popular gluten-free vodka brands include Chopin and Tito’s.
Gin can be a bit trickier, but there are some options available. Look for Cold River Gin or Schramm Organic Gin, both of which are gluten-free.
If you’re a fan of hard cider, you’re in luck! Most ciders are brewed from apples and are therefore gluten-free. Some safe bets include Angry Orchard, Crispin, and Strongbow.
For those who prefer wine, you’ll be happy to know that all types of wine – red, white, rosé, and champagne – are gluten-free since they’re made from grapes. However, it’s important to watch out for any additives that could trigger symptoms.
If you’re looking for something a bit more trendy, boozy seltzers are currently all the rage and many popular brands are gluten-free. Try Spiked Seltzer or Truly Spiked & Sparkling for a refreshing drink without the worry of gluten or added sugars.
Understanding Gluten And Sugar In Alcohol
It’s important to understand the role of gluten and sugar in alcohol when looking for options that are free of these ingredients. Alcoholic beverages can either be fermented or distilled, and this plays a significant role in whether or not they contain gluten.
Fermented alcohol may contain protein from the starting materials that provided the starch or sugar. Whether or not a fermented alcohol is considered gluten-free depends on the starting material. For example, rum is traditionally made from sugar cane and is safe on a gluten-free diet, but it’s recommended to consume rum drinks without added ingredients.
On the other hand, distilled spirits are considered to be free of gluten protein even if the starting material for the alcohol is wheat, barley, or rye. Distilled alcohols include pure distilled spirits such as vodka, gin, whisky, brandy, rum, and tequila. The distillation process removes proteins from the starting materials that provided the starch or sugar, making them safe for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
It’s important to note that flavored spirits may contain malt or other additives that could contain gluten or added sugars. Always check the label and research the ingredients before consuming flavored alcoholic beverages.
When it comes to sugar in alcohol, it’s important to watch out for added sugars in mixers and flavored options. Stick to plain distilled spirits and mix with fresh fruit juices or seltzer water for a healthier option without added sugars.
Gluten-Free And Sugar-Free Beer Options
Unfortunately, non-alcoholic and alcohol-free beer is rarely gluten-free, as most beers are made from malted barley, which contains gluten. However, there are some options for gluten-free and sugar-free beer.
Brewers have started producing gluten-free beer from barley and wheat alternatives such as sorghum, rice, and corn. Some popular brands of gluten-free non-alcoholic beer include O’Doul’s Amber, Clausthaler Dry Hopped, and Heineken 0.0.
For those who enjoy alcoholic beer, there are also gluten-free options available. Look for beer made from gluten-free grains such as sorghum or rice, or try a hard seltzer made from cassava root, quinoa, amaranth, or millet. Crook and Marker is a popular brand that offers spiked and sparkling beverages made with organic alcohol and zero sugar.
It’s important to note that while these options may be gluten-free and sugar-free, they may still contain other allergens or ingredients that could trigger symptoms for some individuals. Always check the ingredients list and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Gluten-Free And Sugar-Free Wine Options
While all types of wine are naturally gluten-free, some wine options are also sugar-free. Dry wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir, have little to no residual sugar and are safe for those looking to avoid added sugars. Champagne and sparkling wines can also be a good option, as they typically have lower sugar content than other types of wine.
When choosing wine, it’s important to read the labels carefully and look for any added sugars or flavorings. Some wines may contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners, which can be problematic for those with gluten sensitivities or other dietary restrictions.
If you’re unsure about which wines are safe to drink, consider reaching out to a local wine consultant for recommendations. They can help you find gluten-free and sugar-free options that fit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Gluten-Free And Sugar-Free Spirits And Cocktails
When it comes to spirits and cocktails that are both gluten-free and sugar-free, there are a few options to consider.
One option is Crook and Marker, a spiked and sparkling beverage made with organic alcohol and zero sugar. It’s less than 1 gram of net carbs, naturally gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan. This high-end seltzer is made from cassava root, quinoa, amaranth, and millet and has no artificial flavors or sweeteners. All of their flavors get their color and sweetness from natural sources.
Another option is Cointreau, which is completely gluten-free. This alcoholic beverage is made with sweet and bitter orange peels, sugar, water, and sugar beet alcohol. Since it’s not produced with any gluten ingredients, there is no gluten protein to filter out. Its citrusy presence and broad dietary compatibility make it a good beverage to include on your happy hour drinks list.
If you’re looking for cocktails that are both gluten-free and sugar-free, consider making a skinny margarita with Lyre’s Skinny Margarita mix. This classic margarita alternative is low in sugar, so you can enjoy all your favorite flavors guilt-free.
It’s important to note that although hard liquors such as vodka, bourbon, whiskey, gin, and scotch are made from glutenous grains, they are actually made gluten-free through the rigorous distillation process. So basically even though some liquors are made with gluten, after distillation, all the gluten is removed from the final product. Thankfully, there are a couple foolproof liquors that are usually always gluten-free such as tequila which is made from agave, rum which is made from sugar cane, and brandy which is basically distilled wine. All of which are not made from wheat or any glutenous main ingredients.
Tips For Choosing Safe Alcohol Options
When choosing safe alcohol options that are free of wheat and sugar, there are a few tips to keep in mind.
Firstly, always read the label and research the ingredients and distillation process of the alcohol you’re considering. Look for plain bottles and avoid flavored options, which may contain gluten or added sugars.
If you’re unsure about a particular brand or type of alcohol, reach out to the manufacturer or do some online research to determine whether it’s safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
When it comes to mixed drinks, stick with mixers you know are gluten-free, such as gluten-free soda or fruit juice. Avoid pre-made cocktail mixers, which may contain added sugars or gluten ingredients.
If you’re drinking beer, be sure to choose a gluten-free option that is specifically labeled as such. Avoid ale or malt beer, which are not gluten-free due to their ingredients.
