“Gluten-free” isn’t just a food trend anymore — it’s reshaping the way many people choose what to drink. For those with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity, even trace amounts of gluten in beer, whisky, or flavoured spirits can cause problems. But when it comes to clean, distilled alcohol, there’s good news: most pure spirits, especially vodka, are naturally gluten-free.
Why Most Vodka Is Gluten-Free
Vodka is made by fermenting and distilling a base ingredient — often grain, potatoes, corn, grapes or even milk whey. Distillation removes almost all proteins, including gluten, which makes unflavoured vodka generally safe. However, flavoured varieties or those produced in shared facilities can carry a small risk of cross-contamination, so reading the label still matters.
That said, the purest option for gluten-sensitive drinkers is a vodka made from ingredients that never contained gluten in the first place. This is where potato, corn and whey vodkas shine.
The Rise of Whey-Based Vodka
Whey — the natural sugar left over from milk processing — has quietly become one of the most interesting bases for craft vodka. It ferments cleanly, distils beautifully, and gives a silky, slightly creamy mouthfeel without adding sweetness. Because whey contains no gluten at any stage, vodkas made from it start and finish naturally gluten-free.
New Zealand distillers have led this movement, using pure alpine water and dairy-derived spirit to produce smooth, crisp vodkas that rival the best grain distillates. Broken Shed Vodka is a standout example — crafted entirely from whey and water, with no additives or sugars. It’s clean, subtle, and sustainably made, embodying the minimalist style that defines modern gluten-free spirits.
Final Pour
If you’re exploring gluten-free alcohol, remember that distillation is key, but the base matters too. Choosing a vodka made from potatoes, corn, grapes or whey ensures peace of mind and a smoother, purer drink. Whether you enjoy it neat or in a martini, the best gluten-free vodkas prove that purity can also taste exceptional.
