For beer enthusiasts with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, getting their favorite brew may seem like a wistful fantasy. However, there’s great news for beer-lovers out there as several gluten-free beers have arrived on the scene. These beers are made with ingredients that are safe for those who have sensitivity to gluten. So, why give up on your passion for beer when delicious gluten-free options are available?
One such gluten-free beer that’s rapidly gaining popularity is Omission Lager. Made from top-of-the-line hops and barley, this beer offers a crisp and refreshing taste with a perfect balance of flavors. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with a spicy meal for added excitement. Another great gluten-free option is Dogfish Head’s Tweason’ale. This beer is brewed with fresh local strawberries, giving it a pleasant fruity taste and aroma. It’s light, crisp, and full of character, making it the perfect summer beer.
In addition to these two, several other gluten-free beer options come in different styles and flavors that cater to all kinds of beer enthusiasts. From rich stouts to apple cider beers, there’s something for everyone. So, why stay away from beer when you can choose from a wide range of gluten-free options? Sit back, relax, and indulge in your passion for beer with these great gluten-free options.
Understanding Gluten-free Beers
Beer is a popular alcoholic beverage that is enjoyed by people all over the world. However, for people with gluten intolerance, consuming regular beer can cause severe adverse reactions. Gluten-free beers have become a popular alternative for people who cannot tolerate gluten. These beers are made with alternative grains that do not contain gluten.
Craft breweries are leading the way in creating gluten-free beers with different tastes and aromas to cater to individuals who have celiac disease, gluten intolerance, and other dietary restrictions. Gluten-free beers can be made using grains like sorghum, rice, buckwheat, and millet, among others. Some breweries also use gluten-free enzymes or de-glutenizing agents to modify barley and wheat, making them suitable for consumption by gluten-intolerant individuals.
What Beers are Gluten-free?
- Sorghum Beer: Sorghum is a gluten-free, versatile grain that’s commonly used in brewing gluten-free beers. Sorghum beers are often crisp, light, and fruity, making them an excellent choice for a refreshing drink.
- Rice Beer: Rice beer is another gluten-free beer option that is made using rice in place of barley and wheat. Rice beers are light, crisp, and refreshing and are perfect for a sunny day.
- Buckwheat Beer: Buckwheat is another gluten-free grain that has become increasingly popular in gluten-free beer production. Buckwheat beers have a nutty flavor and are often darker than other gluten-free beer varieties.
The Gluten-free Beer Labeling Process
The gluten-free labeling process for beer varies from region to region. For example, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet established a rule for what beer can or cannot carry the label “gluten-free”. However, in Europe, beer manufacturers must adhere to stringent gluten-free labeling rules. An example is the “Codex Alimentarius,” a standardized international food code that defines gluten-free products’ characteristics and ensures safe food practices for consumers.
Conclusion
Gluten-free beers have become a popular alternative for individuals who cannot tolerate gluten. In recent years, the craft beer industry has made significant strides in producing high-quality gluten-free beers that cater to different dietary needs. Choosing gluten-free beer means that individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance can enjoy their favorite drink without worrying about adverse reactions.
| Grain Type | Examples of Gluten-free Beer Brands |
|---|---|
| Sorghum | New Grist, Dogfish Head Tweason |
| Rice | Omission Beer, Redbridge |
| Buckwheat | Glutenberg Buckwheat |
This table shows some of the common grain types used in gluten-free beer production and examples of gluten-free beer brands.
Common Ingredients in Gluten-free Beers
Gluten-free beers are made with ingredients that are free of gluten, a protein found in grains such as barley, wheat, and rye. The most common gluten-free beer ingredients include:
- Sorghum: A grain commonly used in gluten-free brewing because it has a similar taste to beer and is high in fermentable sugars.
- Millet: Another grain commonly used in gluten-free brewing because it is high in fermentable sugars and has a neutral flavor.
- Rice: A grain used to lighten the body of gluten-free beers and can also be used as a fermentable sugar source.
Gluten-Free Beer Ingredient Substitutes
In addition to the common gluten-free beer ingredients, many brewers use other substitutes to add flavor and body to their beers. These can include:
1. Honey: A popular sweetener used to add flavor and aroma to gluten-free beers.
2. Maple Syrup: Similar to honey, maple syrup is used to add sweetness and flavor to gluten-free beers.
3. Agave Syrup: A sweetener commonly used in gluten-free brewing to add a fruity flavor and aroma to the beer.
Gluten-Free Beer Ingredient Comparison Chart
| Gluten-Free Beer Ingredient | Flavor Profile | Fermentable Sugars | Body |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sorghum | Beer-like flavor | High | Light |
| Millet | Neutral flavor | High | Light |
| Rice | Neutral flavor | Low | Light |
Ultimately, the best gluten-free beer ingredients will depend on the brewer’s goals for the final product. However, with the numerous gluten-free beer ingredient substitutes available, there are plenty of options for brewers to create flavorful and satisfying beers that are safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Top Brands of Gluten-free Beers
If you’re living a gluten-free lifestyle, you may have thought that your options for beer were limited. However, thanks to the rise of gluten-free brewing, there are now numerous options available that don’t sacrifice flavor for dietary restrictions. Below are some of the top brands of gluten-free beers to try:
- Omission Brewing Company: Omission Brewing Company specializes in gluten-free beers, making it a great go-to brand for those with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance. They offer a variety of styles, including a lager, pale ale, and IPA.
- Glutenberg: This Canadian brewery has received numerous awards for their gluten-free beers. Their offerings include a blonde ale, IPA, red ale, and stout, making it easy to find something for any taste preference.
- Bard’s Tale Beer Company: Bard’s Tale Beer Company was one of the first in the US to dedicate themselves exclusively to gluten-free brewing. They offer a range of styles, including an American lager, Belgian ale, and IPA.
Common Ingredients in Gluten-free Beers
One of the key differences between gluten-free and traditional beers is the use of alternative ingredients to achieve the same taste and mouthfeel. Some of the most commonly used gluten-free ingredients include:
- Rice: Rice is often used in gluten-free beers to replace the malted barley used in traditional brewing. It’s light in flavor and doesn’t add any unwanted aftertaste.
- Buckwheat: Buckwheat is a gluten-free grain that has a nutty flavor and can be used as a substitute for traditional malted barley.
- Quinoa: Quinoa is a superfood that is high in protein and can be used in gluten-free beer to add a nutty flavor and a creamy mouthfeel.
Gluten-Free Beer List
If you’re looking for a comprehensive list of gluten-free beers to try, the Celiac Disease Foundation has an up-to-date list on their website. The list includes beers from around the world, with information on their brewing process and gluten content. It’s a great resource for anyone looking to expand their gluten-free beer options.
| Brand | Style | Gluten Content |
|---|---|---|
| Green’s Gluten Free Beers | IPA, amber ale, dubbel ale | Less than 10ppm |
| Epic Brewing | Lager, IPA | Less than 20ppm |
| New Planet Beer | Blonde ale, raspberry ale | Gluten-free |
When looking at the gluten content, keep in mind that any beer that has less than 20 parts per million (ppm) is considered gluten-free by the FDA.
Best Tasting Gluten-free Beers
Just because a beer is gluten-free, it doesn’t mean it has to taste like watered-down cardboard. In fact, some breweries have perfected the art of making delicious gluten-free beers that can rival traditional brews. Here are some of the best tasting gluten-free beers on the market:
- Omission IPA: This IPA from Widmer Brothers Brewery uses a unique process to remove gluten, resulting in a full-bodied beer with a citrusy hop flavor.
- Bard’s Gold: This beer made with sorghum and hops has a crisp, refreshing taste and a hint of sweetness.
- New Grist Pilsner: Brewed with sorghum, rice, and hops, this light and refreshing pilsner has a clean, crisp taste with a hint of bitterness.
If you’re a fan of darker, more complex beers, there are options for you, too:
Ground Breaker Brewing is a dedicated gluten-free brewery that uses alternative ingredients like roasted chestnuts and lentils to create flavorful beers. Their offerings include:
- Dark Ale: This rich and complex beer has notes of coffee, chocolate, and caramel.
- Cascade IPA: Made with hops grown in the Pacific Northwest, this IPA has a citrusy aroma and a well-balanced bitterness.
- Olallie Ale: This fruity and floral beer is made with fresh blackberries and rose hips.
If you’re not sure which gluten-free beer to try, consider hosting a tasting party with friends. Set up a table with small glasses and a variety of gluten-free beers to sample. You may be surprised by how many delicious options are available.
Low-Calorie Gluten-free Beers
People who want to have guilt-free drinking can opt for low-calorie gluten-free beers as they offer a lower calorie count while keeping the taste intact. These beers are perfect for those who are health conscious and want to enjoy their drink without worrying about their waistline.
- Omission Ultimate Light Golden Ale
- Burnt City Balloon Boy
- Holidaily Brewing Company Favorite Blonde Ale
Omission Ultimate Light Golden Ale is a popular choice among beer enthusiasts. It has a refreshing taste and contains only 99 calories per bottle. Burnt City Balloon Boy is another option that has a satisfying taste while containing only 70 calories per can. Holidaily Brewing Company Favorite Blonde Ale is also a top pick as it has a light and smooth taste with only 99 calories per can.
Low-calorie gluten-free beers are perfect for those who want to enjoy a beer without worrying about the calorie count. These beers are also a perfect choice for those who have gluten allergies or sensitivities.
| Beer Name | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|
| Omission Ultimate Light Golden Ale | 99 |
| Burnt City Balloon Boy | 70 |
| Holidaily Brewing Company Favorite Blonde Ale | 99 |
It’s important to note that while these beers may be lower in calories, they still contain alcohol and should be consumed in moderation. Always drink responsibly and never drive under the influence.
Craft Gluten-free Beers to Try
If you’re looking for delicious gluten-free beer options, the craft beer industry has got you covered. Here are six craft gluten-free beers you should definitely try:
- Ghostfish Brewing Company – Vanishing Point Pale Ale: This award-winning pale ale is brewed with brown rice, sorghum, and a blend of Northwest hops. It’s crisp, clean, and refreshing with just the right amount of bitterness to balance out the sweet malt flavors.
- New Belgium Brewing – Glütiny Pale Ale: Made with a blend of malted barley and gluten-free grains, this pale ale has a rich, toasty flavor with a hint of sweetness. The hoppy finish is smooth and satisfying.
- Ground Breaker Brewing – Dark Ale: This rich, malty dark ale is made with roasted chestnuts and lentils, giving it a nutty, earthy flavor. It’s creamy and smooth with a hint of sweetness and just a touch of bitterness on the finish.
- Stone Brewing – Delicious IPA: Brewed with a blend of sorghum, millet, and rice, this IPA has a bold, hoppy flavor with notes of grapefruit and pine. It’s crisp, refreshing, and perfect for hop lovers.
- Holidaily Brewing Company – Buckwit Belgian: This light, refreshing beer is brewed with buckwheat and millet, giving it a smooth, slightly nutty flavor. It’s effervescent and easy-drinking, with just a hint of tartness on the finish.
- Omission Brewing Co. – Lager: This crisp, clean lager is brewed with traditional beer ingredients, but the gluten has been removed through a proprietary process. It’s light and refreshing with a slightly bitter finish and just a hint of sweetness.
Wrap Up
These craft gluten-free beers prove that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to enjoy a good beer. From rich, malty stouts to hoppy, refreshing IPAs, there’s something for every beer lover in the world of gluten-free brewing.
| Brewery | Beer | Style | ABV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ghostfish Brewing Company | Vanishing Point Pale Ale | Pale Ale | 5.3% |
| New Belgium Brewing | Glütiny Pale Ale | Pale Ale | 6% |
| Ground Breaker Brewing | Dark Ale | Dark Ale | 5.5% |
| Stone Brewing | Delicious IPA | IPA | 7.7% |
| Holidaily Brewing Company | Buckwit Belgian | Belgian Witbier | 4.8% |
| Omission Brewing Co. | Lager | Lager | 4.6% |
Next time you’re looking for a great beer, give one of these craft gluten-free beers a try. Who knows? You just might find a new favorite.
Gluten-free Beer and Food Pairing Suggestions
Pairing gluten-free beer with the right kind of food is essential to bring out the best of flavors in both. Our taste buds register five basic tastes – sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. When it comes to pairing food with beer, the most critical parameter is the intensity of the flavors. Here are some suggestions to help you pair your gluten-free beer with your food:
- Light Beers: Light beers go well with light food. Pair them with salads, seafood, and poultry.
- Amber Beers: The caramel notes in amber beers compliment the creamy texture of mac and cheese. They also go well with grilled sandwiches and pizzas.
- Brown Ales: Brown ales have a hint of chocolate and nuttiness. Pair them with roasted meat, nuts, and cheese.
Looking for specific gluten-free beer options to pair with your food? Here are some popular gluten-free beer suggestions:
- Glutenberg Belgian Double: With a rich, well-rounded, and complex flavor, the Glutenberg Belgian Double goes well with red meats and grilled vegetables.
- Ground Breaker Imperial Darkness: The Imperial Darkness pairs well with mushroom risotto, BBQ, and chocolate desserts.
- New Planet Seclusion IPA: The Seclusion IPA is an excellent accompaniment for spicy Indian dishes, Mexican food, and Thai curry.
To get a better idea of what gluten-free beers are available and their flavor profiles, check out this table:
| Beer | Flavor Profile | Food Pairings |
|---|---|---|
| Grisette Blonde | Light | Seafood, Salads, and Poultry |
| Glutenberg Belgian Double | Complex, Rich | Red Meat, Grilled Vegetables, and Creamy Pasta |
| Ground Breaker Imperial Darkness | Earthy, Nutty | BBQ, Mushroom Risotto, and Chocolate Desserts |
| Bard’s Gold Lager | Malty, Rich | Pizza, Burgers, and Spicy Sausages |
Remember, pairing gluten-free beer with food is all about experimentation. Try different combinations to find out which ones work for you. Bon Appetit!
What Beers are Gluten-Free FAQs
1. What is gluten-free beer?
Gluten-free beer is beer that is made without the use of any gluten-containing grains. Instead, gluten-free beer is typically made with alternative grains like millet, rice, or sorghum.
2. What are the best gluten-free beer brands?
There are several great gluten-free beer brands to choose from, including Omission, Glutenberg, New Belgium, and Dogfish Head.
3. Can people with celiac disease drink gluten-free beer?
Yes, people with celiac disease can drink gluten-free beer. It is important to note that not all gluten-free beers are created equal, so it is important to read labels carefully to ensure that the beer is truly gluten-free.
4. Do gluten-free beers taste different from regular beers?
Yes, gluten-free beers may taste different from regular beers. This is because the alternative grains used in gluten-free beer may impart a different flavor and mouthfeel.
5. Are all beers made with wheat or barley gluten-containing?
Yes, all beers made with wheat or barley are gluten-containing. This is because both wheat and barley contain gluten, which is a protein that can cause digestive issues for some people.
6. Can you find gluten-free beer at your local supermarket?
Yes, you can find gluten-free beer at many local supermarkets and liquor stores. Some stores may have a dedicated gluten-free section, while others may stock gluten-free beer alongside regular beer.
7. Can you make your own gluten-free beer at home?
Yes, you can make your own gluten-free beer at home using alternative grains like rice, millet, or sorghum. There are also several homebrewing kits available specifically for making gluten-free beer.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for taking the time to learn more about what beers are gluten-free! Whether you are someone with celiac disease or just looking to try something new, there are plenty of great gluten-free beer options available. Remember to always read labels carefully and choose a beer that works for your specific needs. Cheers, and be sure to visit again for more helpful articles!