Is There Gluten in Amaretto Sour? A Definitive Guide

January 11, 2026 •

4 min read

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, distilled spirits are generally safe for people with celiac disease, which is a crucial detail for understanding the gluten content of an amaretto sour. However, the gluten-free status depends on more than just the spirit, extending to all ingredients used in the cocktail.

Quick Summary

An amaretto sour is typically gluten-free, but risks can arise from the sweet and sour mix or cross-contamination. Traditional amaretto is made from apricot kernels and is safe, but always verify the brand and check for hidden gluten additives.

Key Points

Amaretto is Gluten-Free: Most major amaretto brands, including Disaronno, are naturally gluten-free because they are distilled, which removes gluten proteins.
Sweet and Sour Mix is the Risk: Pre-made sour mixes can contain gluten additives or stabilizers, making homemade versions with fresh citrus safer.
Check for Cross-Contamination: In bars or restaurants, gluten can be introduced via shared equipment or mixers, so it's vital to communicate dietary needs clearly.
Homemade is the Safest Option: To guarantee a gluten-free amaretto sour, make it at home using fresh citrus juice, simple syrup, and a verified amaretto brand.
Scrutinize All Ingredients: Always read labels on commercial mixes and liqueurs to confirm gluten-free status and avoid hidden gluten sources.
Distillation Removes Gluten: The distillation process for amaretto and other spirits ensures they are safe, but post-distillation additives can be problematic.

Understanding the Ingredients: Is Each Component Gluten-Free?

To answer the question, "Is there gluten in amaretto sour?", one must examine each of its core components: amaretto liqueur, sour mix, and any additional ingredients. The potential for gluten varies significantly among these items, making a complete understanding of each element essential for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Amaretto Liqueur

Amaretto, the almond-flavored Italian liqueur, is typically derived from the kernels of apricots, almonds, or sometimes peaches. The base alcohol is almost always a distilled spirit. The key takeaway for gluten-free diets is that the distillation process effectively removes any gluten proteins, even if a gluten-containing grain was used as the original source. Leading amaretto brands like Disaronno, for example, have confirmed they are gluten-free. The primary concern with amaretto is flavorings or post-distillation additives, but most traditional recipes remain safe.

Sour Mix

The sweet and sour mix is where most of the risk for gluten exposure lies in an amaretto sour. While homemade sour mix made from fresh lemon and lime juice, sugar, and water is inherently gluten-free, many commercial pre-made versions contain stabilizers, preservatives, and other additives that could harbor hidden gluten. For example, some brands use glucose syrup derived from wheat, which, while distilled, can sometimes be a concern for those with severe sensitivities. Always scrutinize the label of any store-bought mix or opt for a simple homemade version for guaranteed safety.

Garnishments and Add-ins

Simple garnishes like a maraschino cherry or an orange slice are safe. However, specialty cocktail bars may use non-traditional ingredients or proprietary mixers. Some recipes might call for egg white to create a froth, which is naturally gluten-free. Nonetheless, verifying all ingredients and processes is crucial in a restaurant or bar setting due to the high potential for cross-contamination.

Cross-Contamination: The Hidden Threat in Bars

Even when all ingredients are individually gluten-free, cross-contamination is a serious risk, especially in high-volume environments like bars or restaurants. Gluten can be transferred from surfaces, bar tools, or shared containers. For instance, a bartender might use a cocktail shaker that was recently used for a drink with a malt-based ingredient.

Mitigating Risk When Ordering Out

Communicate Clearly: Inform your bartender about your gluten-free needs. State that you have an allergy, not just a preference.
Ask About Ingredients: Inquire about the brand of amaretto and if they use a homemade or pre-made sour mix.
Request Clean Tools: Specifically ask for a clean shaker, jigger, and fresh ice to prevent cross-contamination.
Look for Certified Venues: Some restaurants and bars advertise gluten-free friendly practices.

Comparison Table: Homemade vs. Premade Amaretto Sour


Aspect	Homemade Amaretto Sour (Gluten-Free)	Premade Amaretto Sour Mix
Ingredients Control	Complete control over every ingredient.	Variable; unknown additives possible.
Gluten-Free Status	100% guaranteed if ingredients are verified.	Requires label checking; potential for hidden gluten.
Flavor Profile	Customizable, fresh, and vibrant citrus notes.	Often overly sweet or artificial; flavors vary widely by brand.
Preparation Effort	More effort, involving juicing and mixing.	Minimal effort; pour and mix.
Cross-Contamination	Zero risk in a clean home kitchen.	High risk in bar settings due to shared equipment.
Shelf Life	Homemade mix lasts ~2 weeks; use fresh citrus.	Longer shelf life due to preservatives.

Conclusion: A Clear Path to a Gluten-Free Amaretto Sour

For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, an amaretto sour is generally safe, provided you are mindful of its ingredients and preparation. Most reputable amaretto liqueurs, including popular brands like Disaronno, are gluten-free due to the distillation process. The primary risk comes from pre-made sour mixes and potential cross-contamination in bar environments. By opting for a homemade sour mix and communicating your needs clearly when dining out, you can enjoy this classic cocktail without worry. A proactive approach to sourcing ingredients and preparing your drink ensures a delicious and safe gluten-free experience.

Making a Simple and Safe Gluten-Free Amaretto Sour

For ultimate peace of mind, making your amaretto sour at home is the best route. You'll need:

1.5 oz amaretto liqueur (verify brand)
1 oz fresh lemon juice
0.5 oz simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water)
Egg white (optional, for froth)

Instructions

Combine Ingredients: Add amaretto, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. For a frothy texture, add one egg white before the ice.
Dry Shake (Optional): If using egg white, shake vigorously without ice for about 15 seconds to create a meringue-like foam.
Wet Shake: Add ice and shake again until well-chilled.
Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into an ice-filled glass and garnish with a cherry and orange slice.

Coeliac UK confirms that distilled spirits are generally safe for individuals with celiac disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Disaronno Amaretto is gluten-free. The company has confirmed its status, as it's made from a base of apricot kernels and has no gluten-containing ingredients.

Sweet and sour mix is traditionally made from a combination of fresh lemon and lime juice, sugar, and water. Commercial versions may include additional ingredients like preservatives or stabilizers.

Yes, amaretto is generally safe for people with celiac disease. The distillation process removes gluten, but it is always wise to double-check with the manufacturer about any post-distillation additives.

All pure, distilled spirits are considered gluten-free, even if they are made from gluten-containing grains. The issue can arise with flavorings or other ingredients added after distillation.

To avoid cross-contamination, inform the bartender of your gluten allergy, request that they use clean, dedicated tools, and ensure fresh ice is used in your drink.

Simple syrup, made from just sugar and water, is naturally gluten-free. However, flavored syrups might contain additives with gluten, so it's always best to make your own or check labels carefully.

Yes, some brands, like Barrfly, produce ready-to-drink amaretto sour cocktails that are explicitly labeled as gluten-free.