Wheatless Wonders: The Best Beers Without Wheat
If you have a gluten intolerance or celiac disease, finding a beer that won’t upset your stomach can be a challenge. Many traditional beers are brewed with barley, wheat, and other gluten-containing grains that can be harmful to people with gluten sensitivity.
The good news is that there are plenty of delicious wheat-free beer options available. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best beers without wheat and what makes them so special.
What Is Gluten, and Why Should You Care?
Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye. For those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, ingesting gluten can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, from bloating and indigestion to more serious complications like malnutrition and anemia.
For people with gluten sensitivity, beer made with wheat or barley can be particularly troublesome. That’s why many breweries have started experimenting with alternative grains to create beers that are gluten-free or gluten-reduced.
The Best Gluten-Free Beers
There are a number of great gluten-free beer options on the market, including some that are specifically designed to mimic the taste of traditional wheat-based beers. Here are a few of our favorites:
1. Omission Lager
Omission is a brewery that specializes in gluten-free beers, and their lager is one of the best around. Made with malted barley that has been specially treated to remove gluten, this beer has the crisp, refreshing taste of a traditional lager without the gluten.
2. New Belgium Glutiny Pale Ale
New Belgium is another brewery that has jumped on the gluten-free bandwagon with their Glutiny Pale Ale. Made with a combination of malted barley and rice, this beer has a smooth, medium-bodied flavor that’s perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
3. Dogfish Head Tweason’ale
The folks at Dogfish Head are known for their creative, outside-the-box beer creations, and their Tweason’ale is no exception. Made with sorghum, strawberries, and honey, this gluten-free beer has a fruity, tart flavor that’s perfect for those who prefer something a little sweeter.
The Best Low-Gluten Beers
If you’re not quite ready to give up wheat completely, there are also a number of great low-gluten beers that might work for you.
1. Stone Delicious IPA
Stone Brewing’s Delicious IPA is made with a special enzyme that breaks down gluten molecules, making it safe for most people with gluten sensitivity. This beer has a hoppy, citrusy flavor that’s sure to please IPA fans.
2. Green’s Amber Ale
Green’s Amber Ale is brewed with a mix of millet, buckwheat, and sorghum, making it naturally gluten-free. However, the beer does contain barley, which means it’s not safe for people with celiac disease. If you’re simply looking to reduce your gluten intake, this beer is a great option.
3. Sufferfest Beer Co. Repeat Kolsch
Sufferfest Beer Co. makes a wide range of low-gluten beers, and their Repeat Kolsch is a great choice for those who want a light, easy-drinking beer without the gluten. Made with a blend of millet, buckwheat, and quinoa, this beer has a crisp, refreshing taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Beer for Someone with Celiac Disease?
If you have celiac disease, you should avoid beer made with any gluten-containing grains, including wheat, barley, and rye. Stick to beers that are specifically labeled as gluten-free, and be sure to read the ingredients list carefully to make sure they don’t contain any hidden sources of gluten.
Can Gluten-Free Beers Taste Good?
Absolutely! While there is definitely a learning curve when it comes to brewing gluten-free beer, there are now plenty of delicious options available that are every bit as tasty as their traditional counterparts. Whether you prefer a hoppy IPA or a smooth lager, there’s a gluten-free beer out there that’s sure to please.
Are Low-Gluten Beers Safe for People with Celiac Disease?
No. While low-gluten beers may contain less gluten than traditional beers, they still contain gluten and are not safe for people with celiac disease. Stick to beers that are specifically labeled as gluten-free if you have celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
In conclusion, just because you have a gluten intolerance or suffer from celiac disease, it doesn’t mean you have to give up beer entirely. There are plenty of delicious wheat-free and low-gluten options out there that are sure to please even the most discerning beer lovers. So go ahead, crack open a cold one and enjoy!