Whiskey, often referred to as the “water of life” from its Gaelic origins, is a globally cherished alcoholic drink.
The whiskey universe is vast, boasting variants like bourbon and Scotch, and it’s produced using different grains such as corn, barley, rye, and wheat.
Crafting whiskey involves distilling a fermented grain blend and maturing the resultant spirit in oak casks. Interestingly, even if many whiskeys use grains containing gluten, they’re generally perceived as gluten-free due to the distillation method.
In essence, during distillation, the fermented blend is vaporized and then condensed back to liquid form. This step primarily isolates the alcohol from the grain mixture. Gluten, not being evaporative, remains with the residual solids.
Nevertheless, the question of whiskey being entirely gluten-free is debatable.
Explore more on whether every whiskey variant is genuinely devoid of gluten in this piece.
Regulations and labeling
The distillation process renders whiskey gluten-free, according to the Celiac Disease Foundation, regardless of the grains that were used in its production.
Yet, some individuals with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity may react to whiskeys made from gluten-containing grains.
To discuss whether whiskey is gluten-free, it’s essential to understand the regulations on the gluten-free labeling of distilled beverages.
In the United States, the Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) is the sole regulatory agency with jurisdiction over the labeling of distilled alcohol.
It does not allow for any distilled alcohol made from gluten-containing ingredients to be labeled as gluten-free. Products using distilled gluten-containing grains can use the statement, “Processed or treated or crafted to remove gluten”.
Additionally, these products must state that they’re made from gluten-containing grains and that it can’t be verified that 100% of the gluten was removed during distillation.
Summary: While the Celiac Disease Foundation considers whiskey gluten-free due to distillation, some individuals may react to trace amounts. The TTB is the sole regulatory agency with jurisdiction over the labeling of distilled alcohol.
Understanding the causes of adverse reactions to whiskey consumption
Adverse reactions to whiskey consumption can be experienced by certain individuals due to various factors. Here are some possible reasons why some people may experience symptoms.
While distillation separates most of the gluten, there’s a chance that it doesn’t remove 100%, especially if the distillation process wasn’t performed correctly.
Additionally, there’s a risk of cross-contamination if the whiskey is processed in a facility that handles gluten-containing ingredients.
Moreover, gluten-containing ingredients may be added to whiskey after distillation, such as undistilled grain mash for flavor or caramel coloring made from barley malt.
Unfortunately, it’s often impossible to tell if these ingredients were added by simply looking at the bottle. Therefore, the best way to know whether a product is safe to consume is by contacting the distillery directly.
Plus, when it comes to mixed drinks, it’s essential to check with your bartender to ensure that all ingredients used are gluten-free.
Summary: Some people with gluten sensitivity may react to whiskey due to trace amounts of gluten, cross-contamination during processing, or gluten-containing ingredients that were added to the product after distillation.
Popular whiskey brands reviewed
Although many popular whiskey brands use grains that contain gluten in their mash, those with gluten allergies or sensitivities may still be able to enjoy them thanks to the distillation process.
Examples include:
- Crown Royal Canadian Whiskey
- Glenfiddich Scotch
- Jack Daniel’s Whiskey
- Jameson Whiskey
- Jim Beam Bourbon
- Johnny Walker Scotch
- Knob Creek Whiskey
- Wild Turkey Bourbon
That said, even if whiskey is labeled gluten-free, those particularly sensitive to gluten should be cautious about consuming whiskey made from gluten-containing grains, as there’s no guarantee that 100% of the gluten has been removed.
Suggested read: Is beer gluten-free?
Additionally, flavored versions like Fireball contain third-party ingredients, which may have been exposed to cross-contamination. If you’re curious about the ingredients in your favorite flavored beverage, it’s worth contacting the distillery directly.
Summary: Though many people with gluten sensitivity can tolerate whiskey, some may experience symptoms when consuming versions made from gluten-containing grains or flavored varieties.
Gluten-free whiskey brands
If you have had reactions to grain-based whiskeys or are concerned about how much gluten may remain after the distillation process, gluten-free options are available.
As mentioned, whiskeys and bourbons can be made from various grains, including gluten-free options like corn, millet, and sorghum.
Here are some brands to look for:
- Hudson Baby Bourbon: made from 100% corn
- James F.C. Hyde Sorgho Whiskey: made from 100% sorghum
- Koval Bourbon Whiskey: made from 100% corn and millet mix
- Koval Millet Whiskey: made from 100% millet
- New Southern Revival Sorghum Whiskey: made from 100% sorghum
- Queen Jennie Sorghum Whiskey: made from 100% sorghum
- S.S. Sorghum Whiskey: made from 100% sorghum
Additionally, depending on where you live, you may be able to find small, local distilleries that make beverages using only gluten-free grains.
Still, remember that some distilleries may also produce other alcohols made from gluten-containing ingredients. If you’re concerned about cross-contamination, it’s always a good idea to contact the distillery directly.
Summary: Whiskeys made from 100% gluten-free grains, such as sorghum or corn, can be a good option if you’re allergic or sensitive to gluten.
Summary
Whiskey is a distilled alcohol typically produced from grains that contain gluten.
Although distillation often removes most gluten, many specialists suggest that not all whiskeys are entirely gluten-free.
Some individuals might react to these drinks, as distillation might not permanently eliminate all gluten traces. Moreover, certain whiskeys, especially those with added flavors, might contain post-distillation ingredients that either have gluten or are prone to cross-contamination.
Suggested read: Can you drink kombucha while pregnant or breastfeeding?
To be sure of a gluten-free whiskey, opt for ones crafted from entirely gluten-free grains like corn, millet, or sorghum.
Regardless of your whiskey selection, moderation is key. Adhere to guidelines, limiting intake to one standard drink daily for women and up to two for men.
