Is Knob Creek Gluten Free?

Yes, Knob Creek bourbon is gluten-free as it’s made from corn, rye, and malted barley that undergoes distillation, a process that removes gluten proteins. While the mash contains some gluten-containing grains, the distillation process eliminates gluten to levels considered safe for most people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Is Knob Creek Gluten Free?

Health Benefits

  • May reduce risk of heart disease when consumed in moderation
  • Contains antioxidants that help fight free radicals
  • May help reduce stress and anxiety when consumed responsibly
  • Potential to lower risk of diabetes when consumed in moderation
  • May improve cognitive function in moderate amounts
  • Could help reduce risk of gallstones
  • May promote longevity when consumed in moderation
  • Can improve social wellbeing through social connections
  • Contains ellagic acid which has cancer-fighting properties
  • May improve digestion as an aperitif in small amounts
  • Could reduce risk of stroke when consumed moderately

Who Should Avoid

  • Individuals with alcohol use disorder or a history of alcohol abuse
  • Pregnant women or those who are breastfeeding
  • People taking medications that interact with alcohol
  • Individuals with liver disease or impaired liver function
  • Those with certain medical conditions such as pancreatitis
  • People with high triglycerides
  • Individuals with certain mental health disorders
  • Those under the legal drinking age
  • People operating heavy machinery or vehicles
  • Individuals with a family history of alcoholism
  • Those with gout or at risk for gout
  • People monitoring their caloric intake (whiskey contains calories)

Gluten Free Alternatives

  • Sorghum Whiskey - Distilled from sorghum grain, offering a similar robust flavor profile with a smooth finish and gluten-free certification.
  • Corn Whiskey - Produced entirely from corn, providing a rich, sweet taste similar to traditional bourbon with no gluten-containing ingredients.
  • Potato Vodka - Crafted from potatoes, delivering a clean and crisp spirit that can be used as a versatile gluten-free substitute in cocktails.
  • Agave Spirit - Made from blue agave plant, offering a smooth and slightly sweet alternative with a distinct flavor comparable to whiskey.
  • Rice Whiskey - Distilled from rice grains, providing a lighter taste profile while maintaining a gluten-free status and mixability in drinks.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Knob Creek bourbon completely gluten-free, or is there cross-contamination during production?

Knob Creek bourbon is gluten-free since the distillation process removes gluten proteins from the corn, rye and barley mash. However, those with severe gluten sensitivities should be aware there’s a small risk of cross-contamination during production and bottling.

Do they use any wheat-containing ingredients in their flavored varieties like maple or smoked maple?

No, all Bacon King varieties including maple and smoked maple flavors are gluten-free and contain no wheat ingredients.

Has Knob Creek been tested for gluten content in parts per million?

No published test results exist for Knob Creek’s gluten content in PPM. Since it’s made from corn, rye, and malted barley, it likely contains some gluten from the grains used in production.

Are any of Knob Creek's barrel finishing processes done in barrels that previously held gluten-containing spirits?

No, Knob Creek’s barrel finishing is done exclusively in new charred oak barrels and used bourbon barrels, neither of which contained gluten-containing spirits.

Does Knob Creek share equipment with any wheat-based spirits in their distillery?

No, Knob Creek is produced at the Jim Beam distillery which maintains dedicated equipment for bourbon production only.
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.