Is Wine Gluten-Free? Everything You Need to Know

Are You Following a Gluten Free Diet?

If you're one of the millions of people worldwide who follow a gluten-free diet, you may have wondered if your favorite glass of wine is safe to drink?

Whether you have celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or gluten intolerant, it's important to know which alcoholic beverages may contain hidden sources of this protein. In this article, we'll dive deep into the world of wine and explore everything you need to know about gluten and your favorite vintages.

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Good News! Most Wine is Naturally Gluten-Free

Wine is typically made from grapes, which do not contain gluten. The naturally occurring process of turning grapes into wine - which involves crushing, fermenting, and bottling - does not introduce any gluten into the final product.

In fact, the vast majority of wines contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, which is the legal limit for being labeled "gluten-free" in most countries.

This means that whether you prefer a bold red wine, a crisp white wine, or a bubbly sparkling wine, you can generally indulge without worrying about gluten.

So, if wine is gluten free, what's all the fuss about?

Well, this doesn't mean all wines were created equal. Theoretically, gluten contamination can still occur in your favorite wine drinks.

How Can Gluten Cross Contamination Happen?

While most wines are gluten free, there are a few ways that gluten can be introduced during the winemaking process. One potential source is the use of certain fining agents.

1. The Fining Process: Fining is a clarifying agent process that removes unwanted particles and impurities to create a clearer and more stable finished product. Some traditional fining agents, such as egg whites, bentonite clay, and pea protein, are naturally gluten-free.

   However, others like hydrolyzed wheat protein or wheat gluten, do contain gluten. If these are used, trace amounts of gluten may remain in the finished wine. Studies have shown that residues of gluten can be detected in wines treated with gluten fining agents, even at low concentrations of 1 g/hL.

2. Wooden Casks: Another potential source of gluten cross contamination is the use of wooden casks or wine barrels for aging. Some winemakers seal their oak barrels with a flour paste, which can leach small amounts of gluten into the wine as it ages.

   While studies suggest the amounts are likely to be very small, this can still be a concern for people with celiac disease who are very sensitive.

3. Wine Cocktails & Wine Cooler Drinks: Finally, certain types of flavored wine beverages or wine coolers may contain added ingredients that include gluten. These added flavors can come from sources like barley malt, which is not gluten-free. Always check the wine labels carefully. 

“One thing for consumers to watch for is any wine or wine product that contains added colors or flavors, or that is made from barley malt, such as bottled wine coolers,” says Marilyn Geller, CEO of the nonprofit Celiac Disease Foundation.

The Rise of Gluten-Free Winemaking

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of winemakers catering to gluten-free consumers. Many wineries are now adopting practices like using stainless steel vats for fermentation, avoiding the most common fining agents that contain gluten, and providing clear gluten free labeling to indicate their gluten-free status.

This shift is making it easier for individuals with gluten intolerance to enjoy a wider variety of their favorite wines without the fear of adverse reactions.

The demand for non-animal protein fining agents has increased due to concerns about Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), allergies to egg and milk proteins, and the rising demand for vegan/vegetarian and "natural" wines.

Despite the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) approving gluten for winemaking in 2004, it has not received the same labeling requirements as other allergenic proteins by the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV). Currently, no gluten-based wine fining agents are commercially available.

A More Aware Supply & Demand

As awareness of non celiac gluten sensitivity has increased, so too has the demand for wine beverages that are considered gluten free. Winemakers have responded by being more transparent about their production methods and ingredients.

Some have even sought out official gluten-free certifications from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau to provide added assurance to their customers.

This trend towards gluten-free winemaking is likely to continue as more consumers prioritize their digestive system health and wellbeing.

How to Find Gluten-Free Wines?

So, how can you be sure that your favorite wine is gluten-free?

• Stick with traditional, unflavored wines, as they are least likely to have added gluten in the production process.

• For those particularly sensitive to gluten, seek out wines fermented in stainless steel tanks rather than oak barrels, as some oak barrels may be sealed with wheat paste.

• Many wineries now use stainless steel for all or part of their fermentation process.

• Wines from certain regions, like Chablis in France, are known for their use of stainless steel and avoidance of oak aging.

• Always read the label carefully when in doubt.

• Wine manufacturers are not required to disclose the use of fining agents or oak barrel paste on their labels.

• Research or reach out to the winery directly for more information if needed.

• Be particularly cautious with wine coolers, dessert wines, and any wines with added colors or flavors, as they are most likely to contain gluten ingredients.

• If a label isn't clear, err on the side of caution and choose a different wine.

Gluten-Free Wine Brands and Producers

To make your gluten-free wine shopping experience easier, here are a few well-known brands and producers that are committed to creating gluten-free options:

1. Frey Vineyards: This organic and biodynamic winery uses only natural, gluten-free fining agents and avoids the use of oak barrels, ensuring their wines are suitable for gluten-sensitive consumers.

2. Cupcake Vineyards: Cupcake Vineyards offers a variety of gluten-free wines, including reds, whites, and sparkling options. They use stainless steel fermentation and avoid gluten-containing fining agents.

3. Bonterra Organic Vineyards: Bonterra produces a range of organic, gluten-free wines. They prioritize sustainable and organic farming practices and use only gluten-free fining agents in their production process.

4. Red Truck Wines: Red Truck Wines produces a variety of gluten-free options, including their popular Red Blend and Chardonnay. They use modern winemaking techniques and stainless steel fermentation to ensure their wines are suitable for gluten-free diets.

By familiarizing yourself with these and other gluten-free wine brands, you can confidently shop for wines that align with your dietary needs.

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Gluten-Free Wine and Food Pairings

Now that you know how to identify gluten-free wines, let's explore some delicious food pairing options. Here are suggestions for gluten-free dishes that complement different varietals:

1. Crisp White Wines (Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio):

   • Pair with gluten-free seafood dishes, such as grilled shrimp or seared scallops

   • Enjoy with gluten-free pasta primavera or risotto

   • Complement with goat cheese salad or gluten-free bruschetta

2. Full-Bodied Red Wines (Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah):

   • Pair with gluten-free grilled meats, like steak or lamb chops

   • Enjoy with hearty gluten-free stews or casseroles

   • Complement with aged cheddar or Manchego cheese

3. Light-Bodied Red Wines (Pinot Noir, Beaujolais):

   • Pair with gluten-free mushroom dishes or roasted vegetables

   • Enjoy with gluten-free pizza topped with prosciutto and arugula

   • Complement with salmon or tuna steaks

4. Sparkling Wines (Champagne, Prosecco):

   • Pair with gluten-free sushi or sashimi

   • Enjoy with gluten-free appetizers, like bacon-wrapped dates or stuffed mushrooms

   • Complement with fresh fruit or a gluten-free fruit tart

By experimenting with these and other gluten-free food and wine pairings, you can create delightful dining experiences that cater to your dietary needs and preferences.

Gluten-Free Alternatives

If you love the experience of sipping on a refreshing, fruity beverage but want to avoid wine altogether, there are several delicious gluten-free alternatives to consider:

• Hard ciders: Made from fermented apples, hard ciders are naturally gluten-free and can provide a similar level of complexity and refreshment to wine. Be sure to choose a brand that doesn't use any barley malt or other gluten-containing ingredients.

• Homemade wine spritzers: Make your own wine spritzers at home using gluten-free wine and club soda. This allows you to control the ingredients and avoid any potential gluten contamination from commercial wine coolers.

• Distilled spirits: Many distilled spirits, such as vodka, gin, and rum, are naturally gluten-free. While they don't provide the same flavor experience as wine, they can be a safe and enjoyable alternative for those who need to avoid gluten completely.

Enhancing Your Wine Experience With Informed Choices

For wine lovers with gluten sensitivities, the good news is that the vast majority of wines are naturally gluten-free and safe to enjoy. By sticking with traditional, unflavored wines and being mindful of potential gluten sources like fining agents and oak barrels, you can indulge in your favorite vintages without worry.

However it's still wise to remain vigilant, especially if you suffer with severe allergies. Prioritize your health by making informed choices to safely enjoy wine on a gluten-free lifestyle.

One of those informed choices to help you on your way to enjoying wine however, and whenever you want is through Coravin Timeless. This innovative wine preservation system allows you to pour your favorite wines by the glass without removing the cork, ensuring that your gluten-free wine remains fresh for weeks or even months.

With Coravin Timeless, you can explore a wide variety of gluten-free wines without committing to finishing the entire bottle, giving you the freedom to discover new favorites and savor each sip at your own pace.

By combining your knowledge of gluten-free wine with the convenience and flexibility of Coravin, you can confidently embrace your love for wine while maintaining your gluten-free lifestyle.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Is Red Wine Gluten Free?

Yes, most red wines are naturally gluten-free. Red wine is made from grapes, which do not contain gluten. However, be cautious of red wine blends or flavored red wines that may include gluten-containing additives.

Is White Wine Gluten Free?

Like red wine, most white wine is also naturally gluten-free. White wine is made from green grapes and does not typically come into contact with gluten during the winemaking process. As with red wine, be mindful of any flavored or blended white wines that may contain gluten ingredients.

Can Celiacs Drink Wine?

People with celiac disease can generally drink wine safely, as most wines are gluten-free. However, those with severe sensitivities should be cautious of potential cross-contamination from gluten-containing fining agents or oak barrel sealants. Always read labels carefully and research the winery's practices if unsure.

Are There Any Gluten-Free Wine Coolers?

While most traditional wines are gluten-free, many commercial wine coolers and flavored wine beverages may contain gluten ingredients like barley malt. Always read labels carefully and look for explicitly labeled gluten-free options when choosing wine coolers or flavored wines.