Gluten-free diets are increasingly common these days. From restaurants to grocery aisles, it’s clear that more people are choosing to avoid gluten for their health, but what about wine?
As a wine lover, you might have wondered: 'Does wine have gluten in it?' I get this question all the time as a winemaker.
The short answer is usually no; wine is naturally gluten-free. However, there are a few rare exceptions, typically related to where and how it’s made, that could introduce trace amounts of gluten.
Here are some of the most common questions I get about gluten in wine — and a few exceptions worth knowing about:
FAQ #1: Is There Gluten in Wine?
For the most part, no. Wine is made from one simple ingredient: fermented grapes. Grapes don’t contain gluten, and neither does the natural fermentation process.
However, gluten can sneak in during production, typically through cross-contamination, certain additives, or other processing materials used by some producers.
That said, clean, organic wines like those we make at Medly Wine Co. are always gluten-free.
FAQ #2: Where Could Gluten Show Up in Wine?
Gluten in wine isn’t common, but when it does appear, it’s usually due to one of a few factors:
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Cross-contamination at facilities that also handle gluten-containing products.
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Additives or flavorings, particularly in dessert wines or specialty blends.
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Barrel sealants, where wheat paste is sometimes used to seal oak barrels.
These cases are uncommon and typically result in trace amounts of gluten — so small that most people, even those sensitive to gluten, won’t react.
At Medly, our wines are made in certified organic facilities that do not use gluten-containing products at any stage, so there’s no risk of contamination.
FAQ #3: Is There Gluten in Red Wine?
Yes! Red wine is naturally gluten-free. It’s made from red grapes, yeast, and time… that’s it.
The only time gluten might be present is if a winery uses wheat paste on oak barrels or adds post-fermentation flavorings. Since conventional wineries (especially the largest ones) add flavoring to wines, it’s always best to look on the label or ask them directly for clarifications on gluten.
At Medly, our French Red comes from multi-generational organic vineyards in southern France and contains no additives, fillers, or gluten contamination.
FAQ #4: Does White Wine Have Gluten in It?
Absolutely. White wine is naturally gluten-free, just like red. The same rare exceptions apply: oak barrels with wheat paste or added flavors.
Our Italian White is crafted from organic, biodynamic grapes grown in Sicily, with zero additives. We make pure, clean wines you can feel safe drinking, whether you’re sensitive to gluten or not.
FAQ #5: Can People with Celiac Disease Drink Wine?
In most cases, yes. People with celiac disease can safely drink wine. The trace amounts of gluten (if present at all) are typically well below the FDA threshold for gluten-free labeling (20 parts per million).
However, if you have extreme sensitivity, here’s what to look for:
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Avoid dessert or flavored wines unless they’re clearly labeled gluten-free.
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Choose wines from wineries that are transparent about their practices — like Medly.
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Look for gluten-free certifications if you want extra assurance.
FAQ #6: How to Choose Gluten-Free Friendly Wines
Here are some quick tips to help you shop with confidence:
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Go organic and natural: These wines are usually free from additives and made in clean facilities.
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Buy from reputable brands: Seek out producers who are transparent about their process.
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Check labels carefully: For flavored wines or blends, look for “gluten-free” certification.
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Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to contact a winery directly — a trustworthy brand will be happy to answer.
At Medly, every pouch of wine we make is organic, vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and low-sulfite, so you can sip without second-guessing. And we don’t add any sugars to our wines, so they are naturally sugar-free.
Myth vs. Fact: Gluten in Wine
Myth |
Fact |
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All wines contain gluten. |
Most wines are naturally gluten-free. |
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Gluten is added during fermentation. |
Fermentation only involves grapes and yeast — no gluten required. |
|
People with celiac disease can’t drink wine. |
Most wines are completely safe for people with celiac disease. |
|
Only labeled “gluten-free” wines are safe. |
Many wines are naturally gluten-free without needing certification. |
Conclusion: Debunking Gluten Myths in Wine
Here’s the truth: wine is almost always gluten-free. Exceptions exist, but with a little knowledge, you can easily avoid them.
When you choose organic, sustainable wines like Medly, you’re not only avoiding gluten, but also supporting healthier farming and cleaner production practices.
So go ahead, pour yourself a glass, and sip with confidence — wine and gluten don’t mix, and that’s a very good thing.
To happiness and health!
- Aaron
