Is Bourbon Gluten Free?

Check the Label
Bourbon may contain gluten depending on the grain and distillation process.
Bourbon is distilled from a grain mixture (at least 51% corn). Corn is gluten free, but if barley or wheat is used in the mash, trace gluten may remain.

Coeliac Disease

Most bourbon is safe, but check the grain mixture. Many people with coeliac disease tolerate bourbon.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Same as coeliac guidance.

Why Does Bourbon Sometimes Contain Gluten?

Bourbon's main ingredient (corn) is gluten free, but other grains may contain gluten.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ advises checking with the distillery for bourbon.

United States (FDA)

FDA treats most bourbon as gluten free, but check the mash bill.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts
Per 100 mL ยท Typical serve: 100 mL (80 proof)
Energy972 kJ / 232 kcal
Protein0.0g
Fat, total0.0g
Saturated fat0.0g
Carbohydrate0.0g
Sugars0.0g
Dietary fibre0.0g
Sodium0mg

Source: USDA FDC. Values are for the generic food in its standard form. Branded products may vary. Always check the product label for the most accurate nutrition information.

What to Watch For

Grain mixture may include barley or wheat. Distillation typically removes gluten.

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Rum, vodka, gluten free spirits, wine, cider, brandy, tequila.

Medical disclaimer: This is general information about gluten content, not medical advice. If you have coeliac disease, non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, or a wheat allergy, always consult your doctor or accredited practising dietitian before making dietary changes. Product formulations change. Always read the label.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bourbon gluten free?

Bourbon is distilled from a grain mixture (at least 51% corn). Corn is gluten free, but if barley or wheat is used in the mash, trace gluten may remain.

Can coeliacs eat bourbon?

Most bourbon is safe, but check the grain mixture. Many people with coeliac disease tolerate bourbon.

Related Foods in Alcohol

Beer (regular) Beer (gluten free) Beer (gluten removed) Lager Ale Stout Wheat beer Cider

More from RefDat

Explore more reference data at refdat.com.

How We Verify This

Every food in our database is reviewed against current FSANZ and FDA gluten-free standards. Brand data is verified against manufacturer labelling. We cross-reference with Coeliac Australia ingredient lists and the USDA FoodData Central database. When Australian and US standards differ, we apply the stricter standard.

Sources

FSANZ guidelines, FDA guidance, ingredient analysis

Last reviewed: May 2026