Gluten-Free Brews and Cider in the Bay Area?
Gluten-Free Brews and Cider in the Bay Area?
If there’s one thing the west coast has, it’s breweries - but what about gluten-free?
Gluten-free brews are popping up all over the place, so here’s a breakdown of some must-visit breweries and cideries if you’re looking for a beverage in the San Fransisco area.
Buck Wild Brewing
This is a relatively new brewery in the Bay Area and is 100% gluten-free. Their goal is to make tasty beer that everyone can enjoy. From IPAs to sours, they’ve got something for every beer lover.
Anchor Brewing Company
Anchor Brewing Company proudly claims the title of America’s oldest brewery, but did you know they have a gluten-reduced option? While this beer is made with gluten-containing ingredients, it is treated with an enzyme to decrease the gluten content. We give this recommendation with the disclaimer that gluten-reduced beers will not be safe for those with extreme sensitivities.
Far West Cider Co
This cidery is not only run in the Bay Area, but all the fruit comes from their farm in San Joaquin County, California. Reviewers are impressed by the ever-updating cider tap list, food, and view at this stop.
Crooked City Cider Taphouse
While this is a taphouse by name, they also make their own cider. With rotating taps of their own, other local, and non-local cider options, this is a must-go for gluten-free cider lovers. They additionally have a few [gluten-containing] beer and non-alcoholic options on tap, so there are options for everyone.
Honorable mentions
There are a couple of breweries and cideries in the Bay Area we would like to highlight although they don’t have taprooms. Keep an eye out for products from Otherwise Brewing, which is also a 100% gluten-free brewery. This brewery is pushing the flavor boundaries of beer by using ancient grains that don’t contain gluten. We also recommend watching for ciders from South City Ciderworks. With original apple, seasonal, and specialty ciders all made from west coast apples, this Bay Area cidery is one to keep in mind.
The gluten-free beverage market is ever growing, so watch for more breweries and cideries when you visit the Bay Area. Let us know if you’ve tried any of these or if you have more recommendations for us!