Gluten-Free Alcoholic Drinks You Can Have on a Gluten-Free Diet
Pop Quiz! What are the main key ingredients that make up the most popular alcoholic beverages on the market? Survey says… cereal grains. And if you have a gluten intolerance or sensitivity, that can be a serious problem.
Most popular alcohols include cereal grains as a base for fermentation, so what do you do when you discover that for whatever reason, you now have to limit your gluten consumption or eliminate it completely?
What Is Gluten?
So, what exactly is gluten? Gluten is defined as a substance present in cereal grains, especially wheat, that is responsible for the elastic texture of dough. If you have Celiac disease, are on a particular diet, or you even just find that gluten doesn’t agree with you, you’ll suddenly notice just how many foods include gluten.
Curious about what you need to look out for? Examples of cereal grains include:
- Wheat
- Malt
- Rye
- Barley
What Can You Drink If You’re on a Gluten-Free Diet?
If all of your favorite alcohols are made from cereal grains, and those on a gluten-free diet have to avoid cereal grains… what do you do?
For individuals on a gluten-free diet, it can seem like all the popular choices are gluten-filled or inaccessible. Well, all hope is not lost. If you are on a gluten-free diet or are just curious to see what other options are out there, we have compiled an extensive list so you never miss out on a moment because of dietary restrictions.
1. Ohza, the All-Inclusive Choice
Still looking for the right fit for your gluten-free needs? What if we told you there was a drink that was not only 100% gluten-free and vegan, but lower in calories, too? Of course, we’re talking about our canned mimosas. Our team here at Ohza has concocted the perfect ready-to-go drinks just for you, and there’s not a speck of gluten to be found in any of them.
Made with 100% fruit juice and sparkling wine, Ohza delivers everything you love about crafted cocktails in one convenient, delicious, not-too-sugary package. You want a mimosa but don’t want to build it yourself? No sweat. We already did that part for you, because we know first-hand how tricky it can be to pop open a bottle of bubbly when you’re on a moving boat or at a graduation.
We believe in keeping things simple, classy, and fun. We don't claim to have reinvented the wheel… just given it a makeover, with flavors such as:
Always 100% gluten-free, always ready-to-go, and always a win for whatever part of life you are celebrating—that’s Ohza.
2. Gluten Free Wines
Another solid naturally gluten-friendly choice is wine. All it takes to make good wine is some quality grapes and time, so most wines are going to be safe for you. That said, keep an eye out for additives that could trigger symptoms—it’s always worth double-checking the label.
Here are some (usually) gluten-free options that might be worth looking into:
- Pinot Grigio: It’s crisp, airy, and often has notes of pear, lemon, cantaloupe, pineapple, and apple. This crisp, classic white wine pairs especially well with Italian food, but you can really drink it whenever you want.
- Merlot: This red wine has bold, strong flavors and berry notes that will leave you wanting more. It’s usually lighter-bodied, so it pairs well with most deep, savory foods.
Virtually all wines, from reds and whites to Champagne and sparkling wines, all check out in the gluten-free department. That said, they’re not particularly easy to take on the go, especially once you’ve opened a bottle.
3. Hard-Hitting Ciders
Another seemingly obvious choice when you’re looking for a gluten-free drink is hard cider. Most ciders are naturally gluten-free since they are brewed from apples, rather than wheat or barley like beer is. While hard cider is often thought of as a fall beverage, you really can drink it any time of year if the mood strikes.
Whether you’re looking for a classic sweet cider or something a little more crisp and dry, there are options out there. Whether you choose a fancy glass bottle or a can, there’s something about a hard cider that just hits different. You can even find flavored options like pumpkin, wild berry, and strawberry rhubarb if you look hard enough.
4. Hard Seltzers
Hard seltzers are huge these days, and they just so happen to be gluten-free. Hard seltzers are often made from malt liquor, although sometimes they’re also carbonated water combined with fruit juice and alcohol. As long as you’re of age, these are a light, fizzy, gluten-free choice that’s well-loved for a reason.
Seltzers also tend to be lower in calories, so this is a great option if you are searching for a lighter option. Common seltzer flavors include grapefruit, lime, and pineapple, but you can definitely find more unique combinations out there if you know where to look.
5. Classic Cocktails
When you can’t figure out what to drink, a cocktail will truly never let you down, especially if you have a fully stocked gluten-free bar already. Mix your favorite liquor with juice, bitters, soda, or anything else that’s calling your name, and you’re sure to have a good time. Just be sure to check the labels to make sure that everything is gluten-free and ready to go.
For the base of your cocktail, you will need a classic kind of liquor. All of these bases are virtually gluten-free! Score.
- Rum
- Vodka (ones that are corn or rice-based are safe)
- Tequila
- Gin
Cocktails can easily be made gluten-free and still just as boozy and delicious. Here are some of our favorites for your next mixology adventure.
- Palomas
- Cosmos
- Mojitos
- Moscow Mules
- Gin Fizz
6. Gluten-Free Beers
Are fruity flavors not really your speed? If you just made the change to gluten-free and you’re missing classics like beer, don’t worry. We’ve got solutions for your taste buds too. The impossible JUST became possible.
If you look hard enough, you can find gluten-free lagers, dark ales with notes of chocolate and coffee, and even Witbiers that are strategically crafted with millet and buckwheat. We tip our hats to these clever craftsmen.
There’s nothing in this world like grabbing a drink with a friend… and that includes your gluten-free friends, too. Next time you’re out with buddies trying to stick to your diet, see what you can find on the menu that works for you.
Gluten Free Go-Tos
Whether your style is tangy and fruity or moody and bold, we believe that it is worth celebrating with a drink. The things that make us different in life are worth celebrating too, whether you’re gluten-free or not, everyone can pull up a chair and enjoy sipping on something they love.
You never have to look too far to find something delicious that’s crafted just for you and your needs, and that’s why we designed our products to work for everyone. Going gluten-free doesn't mean that you can no longer enjoy your favorites. It just means thinking outside the box a little bit and getting creative with your drinks.
We know a thing or two about that here at Ohza. Pop open a can of one of our craft cocktails and relax, knowing that you don’t have to worry about what you’re drinking.
Sources
10 Best Fresh Cocktail Juice Recipes | yummly.com
The 10 Best Hard Seltzers to Drink in 2021 | thespruceeats.com
