Is Blackbird Cider Gluten Free? Everything You Need to Know

December 30, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, hard ciders are considered gluten-free as they are made from fermented fruit juice, not grain. This brings good news for those wondering if Blackbird Cider is gluten free, but there are important details and potential risks to consider for sensitive individuals.

Quick Summary

Yes, Blackbird Cider is naturally gluten-free because it is made from apples. However, sensitive individuals, especially those with celiac disease, should be aware of potential cross-contamination risks and specific additives. Always check product labels and production details for complete certainty.

Key Points

Naturally Gluten Free: Blackbird Cider is naturally gluten-free as its base is fermented apple juice, not gluten-containing grains.
Potential Cross-Contamination: Due to its ownership by Resurgence Brewing Company, there is a risk of cross-contamination from shared equipment used for beer production.
Ingredient Transparency: While Blackbird focuses on natural apple flavors, additives in specialty or flavored ciders may pose a risk, requiring careful label reading.
No Known GF Certification: There is no public information indicating Blackbird Cider has official gluten-free certification, which is a key assurance for celiac patients.
Best for Mild Sensitivity: The cider is likely safe for individuals with mild gluten intolerance, but celiacs should confirm production practices or choose a certified alternative.
Consumer Due Diligence: The safest approach for highly sensitive individuals is to contact BlackBird Cider Works directly to confirm their manufacturing processes.

Is Blackbird Cider Naturally Gluten Free?

Yes, based on its primary ingredients and production methods, Blackbird Cider is considered naturally gluten free. The fundamental components of cider are apples, which are fruits, and not grains like wheat, barley, or rye that contain gluten. BlackBird Cider Works sources apples from its own orchard and highlights the fruit in its products, avoiding excessive sweetness and artificial additives. The acquisition by Resurgence Brewing Company in 2023 also affirms that cider, unlike beer, is made from fermenting apple juice and is therefore gluten-free.

Understanding the Cider-Making Process

Traditional cider production is a simple process of fermenting apple juice with yeast. While brewer's yeast can sometimes contain gluten as a byproduct of beer brewing, the yeast used in cider fermentation is typically naturally gluten-free. BlackBird Cider Works ferments pressed apple juice with yeast, resulting in a product that is naturally gluten-free. For those with severe sensitivities or celiac disease, understanding the entire process is crucial.

Potential Risks for Celiac Patients

While Blackbird Cider's main ingredient is gluten-free, there are potential risks for highly sensitive individuals or those with celiac disease. The primary risk factors are cross-contamination during production and the use of certain additives.

Cross-Contamination: Since BlackBird Cider Works was acquired by Resurgence Brewing Company, a craft brewery, there is a possibility of cross-contamination from shared equipment used to process beer, which contains gluten. The company operates a tasting room and cidery, and although cider and beer are produced differently, it's vital for those with severe sensitivities to confirm production details.
Flavorings and Additives: Some flavored or specialty ciders may contain additives derived from gluten-containing grains. While Blackbird Cider Works emphasizes the use of fruit, it’s always best to check the ingredients list for specific flavored products, such as their Flamango Peach or seasonal Christmas Cider, to be certain.
Barrel Aging: In some niche cases, ciders are aged in barrels that previously held beer or spirits containing gluten. This can introduce trace amounts of gluten. It is not known if Blackbird Cider employs this practice, but it's another consideration for sensitive drinkers.

Making an Informed Decision

For most people who are gluten intolerant or simply prefer a gluten-free lifestyle, Blackbird Cider is a safe and delicious option. However, for those with celiac disease, extreme caution is necessary. If you cannot find official gluten-free certification on the product, it is recommended to contact the company directly for detailed production information and to inquire about their specific practices regarding allergens and cross-contamination.

Gluten-Free Status Comparison: Blackbird Cider vs. Other Ciders


Feature	Blackbird Cider	Other Hard Ciders	Gluten-Free Beer Alternatives
Primary Ingredients	Apples from estate orchards.	Typically fermented fruit juice, mostly apples or pears.	Naturally gluten-free grains (millet, rice) or processed to remove gluten.
Natural GF Status	Yes, naturally gluten free.	Usually, yes, but depends on additives and process.	Can be naturally gluten-free or gluten-reduced.
Flavoring Additives	Primarily fruit-forward, minimal artificial additives.	Can include gluten-containing flavorings in some cases.	Flavored varieties typically use gluten-free ingredients.
Cross-Contamination Risk	Potential risk due to brewery ownership (Resurgence Brewing).	Varies widely; depends on facility and equipment.	Common in shared brewery facilities.
Certification	No known GFCO certification found.	Many brands are officially certified.	Many brands are officially certified.
Celiac Safety	Use caution due to potential cross-contamination.	Varies by brand, check labels or confirm with the company.	Opt for certified gluten-free options and avoid gluten-reduced ones.

Conclusion: Navigating Blackbird Cider's Gluten-Free Status

Blackbird Cider is inherently gluten-free, derived from fermented apples, making it a safe choice for many seeking a delicious cider. Its reliance on natural, fruit-forward flavors is a significant plus. However, for individuals with celiac disease or high gluten sensitivity, the potential for cross-contamination due to its ownership by a brewery warrants cautious consideration. The lack of explicit gluten-free certification means those with serious allergies should exercise due diligence by contacting the company directly or opting for a confirmed certified brand. For most, this craft cider offers a great gluten-free drinking experience, but those with medical needs must prioritize certainty over assumption. The key is to read labels, understand the manufacturing process, and, if necessary, look for certified alternatives to ensure complete peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Blackbird Cider is made primarily from apples sourced from an estate orchard overlooking Lake Ontario in Barker, New York. The process involves fermenting the apple juice with yeast to create the hard cider.

People with celiac disease should exercise caution. While the base product is naturally gluten-free, the potential for cross-contamination at the brewery facility means it may not be suitable for those with high sensitivity.

Most hard ciders are naturally gluten-free because they are made from fruit, but not all are. The risk comes from additives, flavorings, or potential cross-contamination in facilities that also produce gluten-based beverages like beer.

To be completely sure, you can contact BlackBird Cider Works directly to ask about their cross-contamination protocols and production environment, especially since they are now owned by a brewery. Reading the product label is also essential.

Several brands offer certified gluten-free ciders, including Ace Cider, Angry Orchard, and Woodchuck Hard Cider. Always look for a reputable gluten-free certification logo on the packaging for extra assurance.

There is no public information available confirming that Blackbird Cider is tested for gluten content or certified by an organization like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). Severe gluten sensitivity requires this information.

Yes, potentially. While the base cider is apple, different flavor variants like Flamango Peach or Christmas Cider may contain additives that could present an allergen risk, requiring specific ingredient checks.