For those avoiding gluten, alcohol can be a tricky area. Many popular liquors and beer contain gluten, so it’s important to do your research before indulging. When it comes to bourbon Wild Turkey is a classic choice but is it gluten-free?
Wild Turkey is not made from gluten-free grains. While the distillation process removes proteins there may still be trace amounts of gluten left. People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should use caution with Wild Turkey bourbon.
What is Wild Turkey Bourbon?
Wild Turkey is a popular Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey made by the Wild Turkey Distilling Company. It’s existed since the 1940s and comes in several varieties.
Wild Turkey uses a mash bill of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% barley. It’s aged in charred new oak barrels to give it signature bourbon vanilla and caramel flavors with rye spice.
Why Wild Turkey May Not Be Gluten-Free
Though bourbon seems innocuous, here’s why Wild Turkey in particular may not be gluten-free:
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Contains rye: Rye contains gluten, while corn does not. Wild Turkey bourbon has a decent amount of rye in the mash bill.
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No gluten-free certification: Wild Turkey is not certified gluten-free, which casts doubt.
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Potential for cross-contamination: The facility likely also handles gluten grains.
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Distillation doesn’t remove 100% of gluten: Trace amounts may linger.
Assessing the Risk of Gluten in Wild Turkey
Bourbon making involves cooking, fermenting, and distilling the grain mash. These processes help break down and remove gluten protein chains.
However, research shows distillation may not remove 100% of gluten from the final spirit. The amount leftover falls under 20 parts per million, the threshold for gluten-free labeling.
For celiacs and those highly sensitive, even tiny amounts of gluten could trigger symptoms or intestinal damage. Each person must weigh their own tolerance levels.
Alternatives to Wild Turkey Bourbon
If you need to avoid all gluten, even traces, here are some good gluten-free bourbon alternatives:
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Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon (made with corn, rye, and barley)
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Michter’s US*1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon (made with corn and barley)
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StoneHammer Kentucky Straight Bourbon (made from 100% corn)
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Kings County Peated Bourbon (made from corn and peat-smoked barley)
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Sante Fe Spirits Cowboy Bourbon (made from corn, millet, and caramelized honey)
The Verdict on Wild Turkey and Gluten
Wild Turkey bourbon contains gluten grains in the mash bill and is not certified gluten-free. While the distillation process removes most gluten, trace amounts may remain.
Celiacs and those with severe gluten intolerance should exercise caution with Wild Turkey, as should anyone sensitive to cross-contamination risks. For maximum safety, choose a certified gluten-free bourbon.
However, more moderate gluten-avoiders may be able to handle small amounts of residual gluten. It’s a personal choice based on your health status and comfort level. Talk to your doctor if unsure.
Enjoying Bourbon Safely with Gluten Sensitivity
Here are some tips for safely enjoying bourbon with gluten issues:
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Stick to bourbons with a corn-focused mash bill.
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Seek gluten-free certification or contact the distillery.
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Start with a small serving to test your reaction.
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Opt for vintage/aged bourbons, as gluten proteins degrade over time.
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Avoid bourbon cocktails with gluten ingredients like wheat-heavy liqueurs.
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Check for shared equipment if you have celiac or are highly sensitive.
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Ask at bars if they rinse glassware between gluten and non-gluten spirits.
With care and awareness, those avoiding gluten can still partake in America’s signature spirit. Be sure to research brands thoroughly and find quality gluten-free bourbons. Cheers to sipping whiskey safely!
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Wild Turkey Rare Breed is a “barrel proof bourbon,” which means that after it has been distilled, no water has been added to lower the proof or water down the flavor. It’s a unique marriage of Wild Turkey 6, 8, and 12-year-old stocks, giving it a remarkably smooth flavor.
| Product Type | Whiskey |
| Style | Bourbon |
| ABV | 58.4% |
| Dietary | Gluten Free |
| Country | United States |
| Region | Kentucky |
| Awards | Gold, 2021 SAN FRANCISCO WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION |
Whiskey Review – Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon Whiskey with Russell’s Reserve 10 Comparison Ep: 207
FAQ
Which bourbons are not gluten-free?
What bourbon is 100% gluten-free?
Which Scotch brands are gluten-free?
What is Wild Turkey rare breed made from?
Is wild turkey gluten-free?
Wild Turkey contains several grains including corn (gluten-free) and rye (not gluten-free). The proteins from these grains are removed from the distillation process which supposedly makes Wild Turkey gluten-free. What’s a gluten-free person to do? It honestly depends on your sensitivity.
Is my Turkey gluten-free?
Don’t assume a turkey is gluten-free based on the label alone. Numerous brands use gluten when processing their turkeys. Be sure to read the label carefully and check for any hidden gluten in any of the ingredients. Be especially cautious of any seasoning or gravy packets that come with otherwise gluten-free turkeys.
Which whiskey brands are gluten free?
Here are all the whiskey brands that are gluten free. Fireball Cinnamon Whisky (don’t drink if allergic to gluten) Hudson Bay Bourbon Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey Jameson Irish Whiskey (don’t drink if allergic to gluten) Maker’s Mark Queen Jennie Whiskey Wild Turkey Bourbon For a complete listing of all gluten free whiskey flavors, click here.
Are Diestel turkeys gluten-free?
Diestel turkeys are fed gluten-free grains without fillers and are raised under strict standards. Empire Kosher Poultry, Inc., sells gluten-free whole turkeys in several sizes, along with half turkey breasts, turkey thighs, turkey drumsticks, and ground turkey. Empire brand turkey products can be found in most major grocery stores.
Are deli meats gluten-free?
And we’ve done articles on brands of gluten-free ham and gluten-free turkey, but not deli meats in general. These brands of deli and lunch meat that are either labeled gluten-free, or are naturally gluten-free meaning that they contain no gluten ingredients and list no wheat or gluten allergens, and for most celiacs they are considered safe.
Does Jennie-O sell gluten-free Turkey?
Jennie-O brand sells a number of gluten-free turkey products including Jennie-O Prime Young Turkey, fresh or frozen, Jennie-O Turkey Store Oven-Ready Turkey Breast, and Jennie-O Frozen Turkey Breast. Jennie-O turkey products can be found in many major grocery stores.