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Gluten-free drinks have become necessary for every beverage menu in recent years. Many Americans can’t have gluten because they have an intolerance or suffer from celiac disease. Studies show that 30% of people in the United States avoid gluten.
Running a bar or a restaurant in the US means you need to have this in mind. A large percentage of your customers could be gluten intolerant and that’s why you need to build a special menu for them. Apart from food options, you need to figure out the gluten-free beverages you can serve. Fortunately, one of them is gluten-free vodka!
Vodka is a well-loved alcoholic beverage from people all over the world. In fact, it’s one of the most preferred beverages in America. That’s why you need to prepare your beverage inventory and stock up on different types of vodka so you can make the best vodka cocktails without gluten! From craft vodka to gluten-free vodka, there is a lot you can and should get. And you should also research the best vodka brands.
But for now, let’s dive deep into the world of gluten-free vodka and help you build that gluten-free menu for your valued customers!
Is There Gluten-Free Vodka?
Yes! All pure distilled vodkas are gluten-free. Even if the vodka is made of wheat, rye, or barley. Most types of vodka are safe for people with celiac disease and gluten intolerance to consume because of the distillation process.
However, not all vodkas are gluten-free and you should be wary of that. Some types of vodka have additional ingredients that may add gluten. Whether you are a restaurant owner purchasing for your business or you are a customer at a store, be sure to read the label. Gluten-free vodka will have that written out on the label.
Key Takeaway: Gluten-free vodka is a spirit you need to have on your beverage menu. You can use it to create gluten-free cocktails or serve neat. Either way, when you have it in your inventory, you will be able to cater to the needs and preferences of a large group of customers. Gluten-free vodka will put you ahead of your competition!
How Is Gluten-Free Vodka Made?
Vodka can be distilled from different ingredients. The most common ingredients are wheat, rye, or barley which contain gluten. Through the distillation process, the gluten can be eliminated. However, there are also ingredients that don’t contain gluten from the start. They are potatoes, grapes, and corn.
Which Are the Best Gluten-Free Vodka Brands?
Although taste is a subjective thing, we have a list of the best gluten-free vodkas to get. It would be best to try them for yourself and see which are the ones your customers enjoy most. Think about the cocktails you are going to use them in, too.
Here are our top 10 gluten-free vodkas:
- Tito's Handmade Vodka
- Crystal Head Vodka
- Ciroc Vodka
- Grey Goose Vodka
- Cold River Vodka
- Ocean Vodka
- Dixie Vodka
- Chopin Vodka
- Crop Artisanal Harvest Earth
- Boyd & Blair Potato Vodka
Can Gluten-Free Vodka Be Used in Cocktails?
The short answer is - yes. You can use gluten-free vodka to create all kinds of great cocktails. You can use it to make both popular cocktails without worrying about the gluten content in the end product or you can use it to create gluten-free cocktails.
If you want to make great drinks without any gluten, you should:
Make Sure All Ingredients Are Gluten-Free
While gluten-free vodka itself doesn't contain gluten, some cocktail ingredients may. Be sure to check that all mixers, syrups, and garnishes are gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the cocktail.
You can use these gluten-free ingredients to mix with the vodka:
- Soda water
- Tonic water
- Sparkling water
- Coconut water
- Fruit juices
- Simple syrup
- Honey
- Maple syrup
- Bitters
- Fresh herbs and fruits
- Flavored syrups
Avoid Cross-Contamination
When preparing cocktails, use clean utensils, shakers, and glassware to prevent cross-contamination with gluten-containing substances. This is especially important if you're sharing equipment with non-gluten-free ingredients.
Pay special attention to bar cleaning checklists and make sure there is an area dedicated to creating gluten-free meals and drinks.
Be Mindful of Flavored Vodkas
Some flavored vodkas may contain additives or flavorings that could potentially contain gluten. Always check the label or contact the manufacturer to confirm if the flavored vodka is gluten-free.
Stick to Simple Recipes
Opt for cocktails with straightforward ingredient lists to minimize the risk of gluten exposure. Classic cocktails from the list below are typically gluten-free when made with gluten-free vodka and other safe ingredients.
- Moscow Mule
- Vodka Martini
- Vodka Tonic
Homemade Ingredients
Consider making your own syrups, infusions, and mixers. This way you will be sure that the ingredients you are using for your cocktails are gluten-free.
By following these considerations, you can enjoy delicious cocktails made with gluten-free vodka while minimizing the risk of gluten exposure. Always double-check ingredients and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable drinking experience. The customer experience at your bar and restaurant depends on it!
Add Gluten-Free Vodka to Your Beverage Inventory
It’s important to acknowledge the fact that in this day and age, there are many people who can’t have gluten but also people who choose to avoid it. No matter what type of customers you have coming into your restaurant or bar, you must make sure there are enough beverages for everyone and with ingredients they can enjoy.
That’s why you need to make sure there is gluten-free vodka in your beverage inventory, alongside other gluten-free options. Vegan drinks are also something to think about and include in your menu. Having these types of drinks available will show your customers that you care.
Drinks are not the main focus of restaurants, but they sure can make or break the experience. We even encourage you to work on the beverage menu if you want to earn a Michelin Star. Combining flavors is an art in itself and can earn you many return customers, which will result in more profit and success.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gluten-Free Vodka
Need to know more about gluten-free vodka? To give you more helpful information about it, we decided to answer some common questions. Here is what we have to say!
How Can I Tell If a Vodka Is Gluten-Free?
Look for vodkas labeled as "gluten-free," "made from gluten-free ingredients," or "certified gluten-free." Additionally, check the ingredients list and contact the manufacturer for clarification if needed. If you are ordering for a bar or restaurant, make sure you get in touch with the producers to get more detailed information.
Can Gluten-Free Vodka Be Used in Cooking and Baking?
Yes! Gluten-free vodka can be used in cooking and baking as a flavoring agent or ingredient in recipes. It can add depth of flavor to dishes without introducing gluten. This is a great way to cook for gluten-intolerant people and those suffering from celiac disease.
Where Can I Find Gluten-Free Vodka?
Gluten-free vodka can be found at liquor stores, online retailers, and specialty shops. Look for brands that specifically market their products as gluten-free or inquire with retailers for recommendations. Also, check out lists of brands that make gluten-free vodka online. You may be able to find a way to order directly from them.