Guide to Secure Alcoholic Beverages for Those with Gluten Intolerance
Vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and whiskey are all safe gluten-free spirits when no gluten-containing additives are added after distillation. These spirits can form the basis of a variety of delicious gluten-free cocktails.
Choosing the Right Spirits
When it comes to spirits, it's essential to stick to distilled, gluten-free options such as vodka, rum, tequila, and gin. Tequila and Mezcal, made from 100% agave, are also safe choices. However, be aware that some flavored syrups and liqueurs may contain barley-derived ingredients, so it's always important to check the labels.
Avoiding Hidden Gluten in Mixers
Many pre-made mixers contain gluten, so it's best to go fresh when possible. Homemade syrups and fresh juices can help ensure that no hidden gluten is present. When using store-bought mixers, always verify that they are certified gluten-free.
Simple Swaps for Gluten-Free Cocktails
A classic margarita can be made with 100% agave tequila, fresh lime juice, orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or gluten-free triple sec), agave syrup, and a salt rim made from pure sea salt. For a tropical twist, a piña colada can be made with gluten-free rum, coconut milk, and pineapple juice, blended with ice until smooth.
A Moscow Mule can be made with gluten-free vodka (such as Tito's), lime juice, gluten-free ginger beer (such as Fever-Tree), and built in a copper mug with ice. A gin & tonic can be made with gluten-free gin (such as Hendrick's), tonic water (such as Fever-Tree), and served over ice with cucumber slices and a lime wedge.
Be Aware of Cross-Contamination Risks
Shared shakers and glasses can pose a cross-contamination risk, so it's important to request a fresh glass and shaker when ordering a gluten-free cocktail. When in doubt, it's recommended to go fresh to avoid hidden gluten.
Special Considerations for Celiac Disease
Individuals with celiac disease may need to be more vigilant when it comes to gluten in their drinks. Some coffee liqueurs may use gluten-containing additives, and pre-made margarita mix often contains gluten thickeners. When ordering at bars and restaurants, it's important to ask about ingredients, request fresh-squeezed juices instead of pre-made mixes, choose simple drinks to minimize risk, and mention celiac disease if severe to ensure extra precautions are taken.
Gluten-Free Cocktail Recipes
Here are two examples of gluten-free cocktails suitable for individuals with celiac disease:
Lemony Crown Cocktail (Gluten-Free)
- Made with Crown Royal whisky (certified gluten-free) as the base alcohol.
- Mixed with fresh citrus juices (e.g., lemon) and a splash of gluten-free bitters.
- This cocktail is bold and citrusy, ideal for those avoiding gluten.
The Gingy Mocktail (Gluten-Free and Alcohol-Free)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh ginger juice (made by blending ginger root and water then straining)
- 1/2 cup coconut water
- A dropperful of JÜJ Orange bitters (gluten-free)
- Pinch of salt
- Sparkling water to top off
- While alcohol-free, this recipe uses gluten-free ingredients and can be adapted to add gluten-free spirits if desired.
Guidelines for Making Gluten-Free Cocktails for Celiac Disease
- Use alcohols known to be gluten-free: distilled spirits such as whisky, rum, tequila, vodka (if distilled from gluten-free sources like potatoes or corn), and unflavored hard ciders.
- Avoid malt-derived ingredients like malt extract or malt syrup since these contain gluten and are not allowed in gluten-free labeling.
- Use fresh fruit juices, coconut water, sparkling water, and certified gluten-free bitters as mixers.
- Always verify that any additional ingredients (bitters, garnishes, syrups) are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
These approaches ensure cocktails remain safe for those with celiac disease while providing flavorful and refreshing options.
- When opting for cocktails, choose distilled, gluten-free spirits like vodka, rum, tequila, and gin, or opt for tequila and Mezcal made from 100% agave.
- When choosing mixers, home-made syrups, fresh juices, and certified gluten-free store-bought mixers are recommended to ensure no hidden gluten is present.
- For those with celiac disease, a classic margarita can be made with 100% agave tequila, fresh lime juice, gluten-free orange liqueur like Cointreau or gluten-free triple sec, and pure sea salt, while a Moscow Mule can be made with gluten-free vodka, lime juice, gluten-free ginger beer, and built in a copper mug with ice.
