Is Redd's Apple Ale Hard Cider Gluten Free? What To Know

For many beer lovers, finding the perfect beverage to enjoy on a Friday night or at a weekend BBQ is essential. With the rise in popularity of hard cider, there is now a wider variety of options to choose from. One of those options is Redd's Apple Ale, a refreshing beer that boasts a bold fruit flavor.

But for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, the question remains: is Redd's Apple Ale hard cider gluten free? In this blog post, we will dive into the main ingredients of Redd's Hard Apple Ale and discuss whether it is a suitable choice for those seeking gluten-free alternatives.

Understanding Hard Cider and Redd's Brewing Company

Firstly, let's clarify what hard cider actually is. Hard cider is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented apple juice. It is similar to beer, as it also goes through a brewing process, but it is made from apples instead of barley malt. This makes it a gluten-free option for those who cannot consume gluten-containing ingredients.

Redd's Brewing Company, a subsidiary of Molson Coors, is the creator of Redd's Apple Ale. The company was inspired by the seed of Redd, a mythical figure who was known for his love of video games and weekend BBQs. Redd's Apple Ale was first introduced in 2012 as a limited release flavor and has since expanded to include a variety of flavors in their "Wicked Variety 12-Pack", including Black Cherry, Wicked Mango, and Wicked Blood Orange.

Main Ingredients of Redd's Apple Ale

Now, let's take a closer look at the main ingredients of Redd's Apple Ale and whether they are gluten-free.

1. Apples

As the name suggests, apples are the main ingredient in Redd's Apple Ale. The apples used in the brewing process are a blend of apples, which gives the ale its crisp taste. Apples are naturally gluten-free, making this a safe option for those with gluten intolerance.

2. Malt

Malt is a key ingredient in beer, but it is not used in the production of hard cider. Instead, Redd's Apple Ale uses a flavored malt beverage, which is made from corn syrup. Corn syrup is gluten-free, making this a suitable option for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

3. Hop Extract

Hop extract is used in the brewing process to add bitterness cues and balance out the sweetness of the apples. This ingredient is also gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten intolerance.

4. Natural Flavoring Agents

Redd's Apple Ale also contains natural flavoring agents, which give it its bold fruit flavor. These flavoring agents are derived from real fruit and are gluten-free.

5. Citric Acid

Citric acid is used as a preservative in Redd's Apple Ale. It is derived from citrus fruits and is gluten-free.

6. Malic Acid

Malic acid is another type of acid used in the brewing process. It is naturally found in apples and is gluten-free.

7. Potassium Sorbate and Sodium Benzoate

These ingredients are used as preservatives in Redd's Apple Ale. They are both gluten-free and are commonly used in many other gluten-free beers.

8. Caramel Color

Caramel color is used to give Redd's Apple Ale its golden ale color. It is made from corn and is gluten-free.

9. Alcohol Content

Redd's Apple Ale has an alcohol content of 5%, which is similar to other types of beer. It is important to note that consuming too much alcohol can cause adverse reactions in those with gluten intolerance, so it is recommended to drink in moderation.

Is Redd's Apple Ale Gluten Free?

Based on the main ingredients of Redd's Apple Ale, it can be considered a gluten-free option. However, it is important to note that Redd's Apple Ale is not certified as gluten-free. This means that there is a slight chance of cross-contamination during the production process. If you have a severe gluten allergy, it is best to avoid Redd's Apple Ale and stick to certified gluten-free beers.

Redd's Wicked Apple Ale Beer - A Gluten-Free Alternative

For those who are looking for a gluten-free option with a higher alcohol content, Redd's Wicked Apple Ale Beer may be the perfect choice. This refreshingly hard ale has a higher alcohol content of 8% and is also made with gluten-free ingredients. It comes in a variety of flavors, including Redd's Wicked Mango and Redd's Wicked Black Cherry.

Other Gluten-Free Beer Options

If Redd's Apple Ale is not your cup of tea, there are plenty of other gluten-free beer options to choose from. Angry Orchard, another popular hard cider brand, offers a variety of gluten-free flavors, including Crisp Apple and Rosé. Omission Beer and Glutenberg are also popular gluten-free beer brands that offer a variety of flavors.

In conclusion, while Redd's Apple Ale is not certified as gluten-free, it can be considered a safe option for those with gluten intolerance. It is important to remember to always check the label and ingredients list before consuming any alcoholic beverage. And for those who are looking for a gluten-free option with a bold fruit flavor, Redd's Apple Ale and Redd's Wicked Apple Ale Beer are worth a try. Cheers to delicious cider and finding the right beverage for you!