When it comes to enjoying a refreshing beer, individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities often find themselves limited in their options. The majority of beers contain gluten due to the use of malted barley during the brewing process. However, there is a glimmer of hope for those who love beer but need to avoid gluten – rice beers.
1. Sapporo: Sapporo is a well-known brand that offers a rice beer variety. However, it is important to note that not all Sapporo beers are gluten-free. The traditional Sapporo beers typically contain both rice and barley malt, making them unsuitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities.
2. Kirin: Similarly, Kirin, a beloved Japanese beer brand, offers a rice beer known as Kirin Ichiban. This particular brew is made using pure rice and is suitable for those who follow a gluten-free diet.
3. Michelob Ultra: Michelob Ultra is another popular rice beer that is known for its low calorie content. While it is brewed with rice, it also includes gluten-containing grains, making it unsuitable for individuals looking for gluten-free options.
4. Budweiser: Budweiser, a household name in the beer industry, also boasts a rice beer – Budweiser Select. Unfortunately, Budweiser Select is not gluten-free as it contains both rice and barley malt.
5. Gluten-Free Rice Beers: Despite the limited options within mainstream beer brands, there are dedicated gluten-free brewers who have crafted rice beers specifically for those with gluten sensitivities. These beers are made without any addition of malted barley, ensuring they are safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten-free preferences.
6. Omission Brewing Co.: Omission Brewing Co. offers a gluten-free rice lager that combines the smoothness of rice with the flavors of hops. This beer is brewed with rice, making it completely gluten-free and suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
7. Ground Breaker Brewing: Ground Breaker Brewing is another reputable brewery that specializes in gluten-free beer. Their range includes a variety of rice beers, such as their Rice Pale Ale and Rice IPA, providing flavorful options for those seeking gluten-free alternatives.
8. New Planet Brewery: New Planet Brewery prides itself on producing exclusively gluten-free beer. Their Tread Lightly Ale, made with rice, sorghum, and corn, offers a unique taste that can be enjoyed by those who avoid gluten in their diets.
9. Ghostfish Brewing Company: Ghostfish Brewing Company is well-regarded for its gluten-free beers, including their Grapefruit IPA and Shrouded Summit Belgian White. These rice-based beers are brewed without any added gluten-containing ingredients, catering to the needs of gluten-sensitive individuals.
10. Redbridge Beer: Redbridge Beer, crafted by Anheuser-Busch, is an amber lager made from sorghum and rice. With its gluten-free status, Redbridge provides a flavorful and accessible option for those with gluten sensitivities.
11. Green’s Dry Hopped Lager: Green’s Dry Hopped Lager is another notable gluten-free rice beer. Produced by Green’s Brewery, this golden, hoppy beer offers a refreshing taste without any gluten additives.
12. Conclusion: While many mainstream rice beers may not be suitable for individuals avoiding gluten, there is a growing market of dedicated gluten-free breweries that offer a variety of rice beers. Brands like Omission Brewing Co., Ground Breaker Brewing, New Planet Brewery, Ghostfish Brewing Company, Redbridge Beer, and Green’s Brewery provide options for individuals with gluten sensitivities to enjoy a cold, gluten-free beer. So, whether you’re craving a light lager or a hoppy IPA, there are gluten-free rice beer options out there to tantalize your taste buds.
