Is Waterbird Vodka Gluten-Free? The Definitive Answer for Safe Enjoyment

December 30, 2025 •

2 min read

According to product highlights and multiple retailers, Waterbird's vodka is distilled from 100% American-made gluten-free potatoes. This confirms that Waterbird vodka is unequivocally gluten-free, providing a clear answer for individuals navigating dietary restrictions like celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Quick Summary

Waterbird spirits are certified gluten-free because they are distilled from naturally gluten-free potatoes. This ensures their vodka and vodka-based cocktails are safe for those avoiding gluten, unlike some spirits made from grains.

Key Points

Naturally Gluten-Free: Waterbird's vodka is distilled from 100% American-made potatoes, which are naturally gluten-free from the source.
Distillation Process: While distillation typically removes gluten from grain-based spirits, Waterbird's use of potatoes offers an extra layer of certainty for sensitive individuals.
Certified Safe: Waterbird products, including its vodka and canned cocktails, are explicitly labeled as gluten-free, signaling their safety for gluten-conscious diets.
Watch for Additives: Always check the labels on flavored spirits in general, as additives after distillation can sometimes contain gluten, although Waterbird's vodka products are confirmed gluten-free.
Celiac Friendly: Waterbird is a reliable and safe choice for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity looking to enjoy a cocktail without worry.

The Core Ingredient: Naturally Gluten-Free Potato Vodka

Waterbird Spirits uses 100% American-made potatoes for its vodka, ensuring it is naturally gluten-free from the source. This offers peace of mind for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, as the vodka never comes into contact with gluten-containing grains like wheat or barley.

Understanding Distillation and Gluten

Distillation is a process that separates alcohol from other components, including large gluten proteins, making most pure distilled spirits gluten-free even if made from grains.

The FDA and TTB Perspective

The U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) allows gluten-free labeling on spirits distilled from gluten-containing grains if contamination is prevented after distillation. However, spirits made from naturally gluten-free ingredients, like Waterbird's potato vodka, can be more easily labeled as gluten-free.

Waterbird's Product Range: Beyond the Vodka Itself

Waterbird is known for its ready-to-drink (RTD) canned cocktails, which use their potato vodka base. According to various sources, all Waterbird's vodka-based canned cocktails, such as Vodka Citrus Squeeze and Vodka Transfusion, are labeled gluten-free. This is important because additives in flavored beverages can sometimes contain gluten.

What to Watch for in Flavored Vodkas

While Waterbird is committed to naturally gluten-free ingredients, always check labels on flavored spirits from other brands, as additives for flavor or color can be a source of hidden gluten. Look for products specifically labeled gluten-free or certified by an independent organization.

A Comparison of Vodka Types

Below is a comparison of different vodka types and their gluten status:


Feature	Waterbird (Potato-Based)	Tito's (Corn-Based)	Traditional Grain Vodka (e.g., Grey Goose)
Base Ingredient	100% American Potatoes	100% Corn	Wheat, Rye, or Barley
Inherent Gluten Status	Naturally gluten-free, no gluten present at any stage.	Naturally gluten-free, no gluten present at any stage.	Starts with gluten, but distillation removes it.
Labeling	Explicitly labeled as gluten-free.	Certified gluten-free by GIG.	Can be labeled gluten-free if good manufacturing practices are followed.
Allergen Concern	Minimal concern for cross-contamination or residual gluten.	Minimal concern for cross-contamination or residual gluten.	Minimal concern from pure vodka, but some sensitive individuals may prefer naturally gluten-free sources.
Flavored Products	All vodka-based cocktails are labeled gluten-free.	Certified gluten-free, no mash added back.	Requires verification, as additives can introduce gluten.

Conclusion: A Safe Bet for Gluten-Conscious Drinkers

For those needing to avoid gluten, Waterbird vodka is a safe choice. Its use of naturally gluten-free potatoes and consistent labeling on its vodka and canned cocktails provides transparency and confidence, allowing consumers to enjoy their drinks without worrying about gluten contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Waterbird Spirits uses premium vodka distilled from 100% American-grown potatoes, which are naturally gluten-free.

Yes, product descriptions and labeling confirm that Waterbird’s canned cocktails, including the vodka varieties like Citrus Squeeze and Transfusion, are gluten-free.

Yes, technically the distillation process separates and removes large gluten proteins. However, some highly sensitive individuals prefer spirits made from naturally gluten-free sources like potatoes or corn for complete peace of mind.

The main risk for gluten contamination in spirits comes from ingredients or flavorings added after the distillation process. It is crucial to check the labeling on flavored spirits.

While Waterbird's vodka-based products are gluten-free, it's important to check ingredients for their other spirit-based products, like rum or gin cocktails, though many are also labeled gluten-free.

According to the TTB, a 'gluten-free' claim is permitted on distilled spirits distilled from gluten-containing grains as long as good manufacturing practices prevent contamination. For products made from naturally gluten-free ingredients, the claim can be made more straightforwardly.

Yes, Waterbird's Ranch Water is gluten-free. It is made with premium Blanco tequila, sparkling water, and real lime juice.