Understanding High Noon's Gluten-Free Commitment
For many consumers, particularly those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, knowing the ingredients in their beverages is critical. High Noon has built a strong brand reputation by ensuring transparency and catering to this growing market. Their hard iced teas, made with a real vodka base, are a prime example of their commitment to providing gluten-free options. The key to their gluten-free status lies in the source of their alcohol.
The Role of Distilled Vodka
Unlike many other hard seltzers or flavored malt beverages that use a fermented malt base derived from gluten-containing grains like barley, High Noon uses vodka. Pure, distilled vodka, even if originally made from a gluten-containing grain, is considered gluten-free according to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). However, High Noon takes this a step further by using vodka distilled from corn, a naturally gluten-free source, which provides an added layer of assurance for those with severe sensitivities.
- Ingredient Transparency: High Noon explicitly labels its iced teas as gluten-free on packaging and marketing materials.
- Vodka Base: The use of real, corn-based vodka eliminates the risk of gluten contamination that can be associated with malt-based beverages.
- No Added Gluten: The company's production processes ensure no gluten-containing ingredients are added at any stage.
- Natural Flavors: The iced teas are crafted with natural flavors and real iced tea, avoiding artificial flavors and high-fructose corn syrup that might contain hidden gluten.
Comparing High Noon Tea to Other Hard Beverages
When navigating the hard beverage aisle, it's easy to be confused by the different types of products and their gluten content. High Noon's transparency provides a clear advantage over many competitors. For instance, some popular hard seltzers use a fermented cane sugar base, which is also gluten-free, while others use a malt liquor base that is not.
| Feature | High Noon Vodka Iced Tea | Fermented Malt Beverages (Some Hard Teas) | Hard Seltzers (Cane Sugar Based) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Alcohol | Real Vodka (corn-based) | Fermented Malted Barley | Fermented Cane Sugar |
| Gluten Status | Certified Gluten-Free | Not Gluten-Free | Gluten-Free (typically) |
| Carbonation | Non-Carbonated | Can be carbonated | Heavily Carbonated |
| Flavoring | Real Iced Tea + Natural Flavors | Flavoring added post-fermentation | Real Fruit Juice or Flavors |
| Taste Profile | Authentic, smooth tea taste | Can have a "malty" aftertaste | Often crisp, fruity, and bubbly |
High Noon's Ingredients and Sourcing
The brand's dedication to using quality ingredients further reinforces its gluten-free status. The iced tea is made with real tea, the base alcohol is corn-based vodka, and they do not add gluten during manufacturing. While some products may contain trace amounts of gluten from cross-contamination, the risk is minimal in a product with no gluten ingredients and a declared gluten-free status.
Here are some of the key ingredients found in High Noon Tea:
- Real Vodka: The foundation of the drink is a high-quality vodka.
- Real Iced Tea: Brewed iced tea provides the authentic tea flavor.
- Natural Flavors: All added flavor profiles, from peach to lemon, come from natural sources.
- Sweeteners: High Noon teas contain no added sugar, with some products using non-nutritive sweeteners for taste.
- Water: Filtered water is used to create the final product.
The Importance of Labeling and Certification
For those with celiac disease, certified gluten-free labeling provides peace of mind. While the TTB does not require gluten-free labeling for distilled spirits, High Noon voluntarily includes this information, highlighting their commitment to consumer safety and transparency. Always look for the “Gluten-Free” designation on High Noon cans to ensure the product is suitable for your dietary needs.
Conclusion: Enjoying High Noon Tea Safely
If you have been searching for a delicious, ready-to-drink hard tea that fits a gluten-free lifestyle, High Noon Tea is an excellent choice. By using real, corn-based vodka and real tea, the company has created a product that is certified and explicitly labeled as gluten-free. This makes it a safe and refreshing option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity who want to enjoy a crisp, clean beverage. Always remember to check labels and, when in doubt, confirm directly with the manufacturer, but with High Noon, you can sip with confidence knowing their hard teas are crafted with your dietary needs in mind.
Gluten-Free Alternatives and Considerations
While High Noon offers a reliable gluten-free option, other hard beverages may or may not be safe. When choosing alternatives, be cautious with flavored malt beverages (FMBs), as they are fermented from malted barley and contain gluten. Many hard ciders and wines are naturally gluten-free, but it's essential to check for any added flavors or ingredients that could introduce gluten. High Noon's vodka-based seltzers, like the hard tea line, are also a safe, gluten-free bet.
