Tequila is a favorite drink for many people, and it’s hard to imagine not drinking this delicious spirit. However, those who are gluten-free might be wondering if tequila is safe for them to imbibe. We’re here to help you find out!
Tequila, in its natural form, is gluten-free. However, there are different types of tequila that can be produced using other ingredients which might contain gluten so pay attention to what you’re buying. This includes flavored and mixed drinks with tequila.
What is Tequila Made From?
Tequila is made from the agave plant, which is a succulent. The juice of the agave is extracted and fermented to make tequila.
Does Tequila Age Matter?
Yes, tequila aging matters. Aging the agave juice is a process that takes several years and during this time, it can be exposed to gluten from cross-contamination. The result of this exposure might not always make the final product contain actual gluten but rather ‘traces’ of gluten which could lead someone who’s extremely sensitive to become ill.
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What are the Possible Gluten Sources?
There are several potential gluten-containing ingredients that could make their way into tequila during production including: malt, barley, wheat and rye. Some companies might also use enzymes or other agents which contain/might contain traces of gluten to speed up fermentation. Check with your supplier if you’re unsure.
Is it Safe to Drink?
It depends. If you’re sensitive to trace amounts of gluten or are celiac, then the answer is no; stay away from tequila cocktails and other mixed drinks which include this product (unless they’ve specifically been made with gluten-free ingredients). However, if you don’t have a sensitivity to
What are Some Gluten-Free Types of Tequila?
Some gluten-free types of tequila include silver, reposado, and anejo. These types are made with just agave nectar, yeast, and water. They don’t contain any other grains or additives that might contain gluten.
Are There Any Risks Associated with Drinking Gluten-Free Tequila?
There are no risks associated with drinking gluten-free tequila as long as you’re sticking to brands that are known to be safe. However, if you’re uncertain about a particular brand or type, check with your supplier.
How is Tequila Made?
Tequila is made in a two-step process. The agave plant’s juices are collected and fermented, and then the liquid is distilled to make tequila.
What Tequila Brands are Gluten-Free?
There are a few different gluten-free tequila brands that you can choose from.
These include:
- Tequila Cazadores
- Tequila Fortaleza
- Tequila Patrón
- El Jimador Tequila
- 1800 Silver Tequila
- Suaza Gold Tequila
If you’re looking for something with a little less kick, there are some gluten-free tequila mixer options. These include:
- Tonic water
- Cola or Sprite Zero
- Water (plain)
- Club soda
- Coffee liqueur
Is Jose Cuervo Tequila Gluten-Free?
Jose Cuervo tequila is not gluten-free. The company produces a Jose Cuervo Gold Tequila that contains malt, which is made from barley and therefore contains gluten. If you’re looking for a different brand of tequila, be sure to read the label carefully to make sure it’s gluten-free.
Is Patron Tequila Gluten-Free?
Patron tequila is gluten-free. The company produces a Patron Silver Tequila that is made with just agave nectar, yeast, and water – no other grains or additives are used which could contain gluten.
Is Cazadores Tequila Gluten-Free?
Cazadores tequila is gluten-free. The company produces a Cazadores Silver Tequila that is made with just agave nectar, yeast, and water – no other grains or additives are used which could contain gluten.
Is Herradura Tequila Gluten-Free?
Herradura tequila is not gluten-free. The company produces a Herradura Silver Tequila that contains malt, which is made from barley and therefore contains gluten.
Is Sierra Tequila Gluten-Free?
Sierra tequila is not gluten-free. The company produces a Sierra Silver Tequila that contains malt, which is made from barley and therefore contains gluten.
Is Teremana Tequila Gluten-Free?
Tequila Termana is not gluten-free. The company produces a Tequila Termana Silver Tequila that contains malt, which is made from barley and therefore contains gluten.
Is Reposado Tequila Gluten-Free?
Reposado tequila is gluten-free. The company produces a Reposado Tequila that contains agave nectar, yeast, and water.
Is Tequila Safe for People with Celiac Disease?
If you have celiac disease, talk with your doctor before drinking tequila.
Some people may develop an allergy to the agave plant if they’re allergic to pollen or other plants in the daisy family. If this is the case for you, then avoid consuming tequila as it might cause a reaction. This can include hives and difficulty breathing so speak with your doctor immediately if any of these symptoms occur after drinking tequila.
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What are Some Gluten-Free Alternatives?
If you don’t want to drink alcohol because of its gluten content but still want something tasty, try making one of these fruit mocktails instead:
Tequila Sunrise made using fresh orange juice, club soda or Sprite Zero , grenadine.
So, Is Tequila Gluten-Free?
The answer is yes – in its natural form, tequila is gluten-free. However, some brands add other ingredients that contain gluten so always read the label carefully! Try one of these delicious and safe gluten-free brands: Tequila Cazadores, Fortaleza, Patron or El Jimador Tequila. And for who want something mixed with their tequila, try tequila sunrise with orange juice, club soda, sprite zero or grenadine.