Is Buffalo Trace Bourbon Gluten Free?

Yes, Buffalo Trace Bourbon is gluten-free because distilled spirits made from gluten-containing grains have the gluten protein removed during the distillation process. However, individuals with severe celiac disease or extreme gluten sensitivity should be aware that some bourbon may have added flavorings or be processed in facilities that handle gluten products.
Is Buffalo Trace Bourbon Gluten Free?

Health Benefits

  • May reduce risk of heart disease when consumed in moderation
  • Contains antioxidants that help fight free radicals
  • Potentially lowers risk of diabetes
  • Can help reduce stress and anxiety temporarily
  • May improve cognitive function in moderate amounts
  • Can temporarily increase blood circulation
  • Potential antibacterial properties in moderate consumption
  • May aid digestion when consumed in small amounts
  • Contains ellagic acid which has anti-inflammatory properties
  • Moderate consumption may help prevent common cold
  • Potentially reduces risk of gallstones

Who Should Avoid

  • Individuals with alcohol use disorders or addiction
  • People taking medications that interact with alcohol
  • Pregnant women
  • Those with liver disease or impaired liver function
  • Individuals with pancreatitis
  • People with certain digestive conditions like inflammatory bowel disease
  • Those with high triglycerides
  • Individuals with a history of alcohol-induced health problems
  • People with certain mental health conditions
  • Those who need to operate vehicles or machinery
  • Individuals with gout
  • People with diabetes who have difficulty managing blood sugar

Gluten Free Alternatives

  • Maker's Mark Bourbon - Smooth, wheated bourbon with a soft, sweet flavor profile made from corn, rye, and malted barley that is naturally gluten free.
  • Woodford Reserve Bourbon - Premium small batch bourbon with rich, complex taste created using traditional distillation methods and naturally gluten free ingredients.
  • Wild Turkey Bourbon - Classic Kentucky bourbon with bold flavor made from corn, rye, and malted barley that is processed to remove gluten proteins.
  • Jim Beam Bourbon - Popular, widely available bourbon made from corn, rye, and malted barley that is considered gluten free during distillation.
  • Four Roses Bourbon - Smooth, versatile bourbon with balanced flavor profile created using corn, rye, and malted barley that is naturally gluten free.

Related Articles

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Buffalo Trace Bourbon gluten-free despite being made from grains?

Buffalo Trace Bourbon is gluten-free because the distillation process removes all gluten proteins from the final product. This is true for all distilled spirits, even those made from gluten-containing grains like wheat, rye, or barley.

Do they process any wheat products in the same facility where they make their bourbon?

No bourbon distilleries don’t process wheat products in their facilities unless they use wheat as part of their bourbon mashbill. Bourbon facilities are dedicated to making bourbon and other spirits only.

Could the oak barrels used for aging have been sealed with wheat paste?

Yes, historically wheat paste was sometimes used as a sealant for oak barrels. Modern barrels typically use different sealants that are more reliable and food-safe.

Does Buffalo Trace add any flavoring agents that might contain gluten after distillation?

No, Buffalo Trace does not add any flavoring agents after distillation. The bourbon is naturally gluten-free due to the distillation process.

Are there any special precautions I should take if drinking bourbon triggers my symptoms even though distilled spirits are generally considered safe?

Avoid bourbon completely and consult a healthcare provider to determine if you have a specific sensitivity to ingredients unique to bourbon production like corn mash or oak barrel aging.
Picture of Dr. Anne Verstegen

Dr. Anne Verstegen

Dr. Anne Verstegen specializes in orthomolecular therapy and nutritional coaching. With a background in public health research and management, she focuses on addressing health concerns through dietary approaches, gut health optimization, and stress reduction strategies. As Glutenfreeda's professional editor, she reviews all content to ensure accuracy, safety, and alignment with current nutritional science.

We Try Our Best

We understand how important it is to have trustworthy information when managing a gluten-free lifestyle, which is why we carefully source all our content from respected health and nutrition experts. You can find these trusted references listed below: 

  1. National Institutes of Health (NIH)

  2. Coeliac UK

  3. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

  4. Mayo Clinic

  5. World Health Organization (WHO)

  6. Celiac Disease Foundation

While we’re committed to sharing the most accurate and helpful gluten-free guidance possible, we’re human and sometimes things slip through the cracks.

If something doesn’t look quite right to you or if you have any questions, we’d genuinely appreciate you contacting us. It helps us keep improving and ensures everyone gets the reliable information they deserve.

The information on this site is for educational purposes only and doesn’t replace professional medical advice. If you suspect gluten sensitivity, consult with a healthcare provider before changing your diet.