Tag: Winter wheat

GREY GOOSE vodka is famously crafted from soft winter wheat grown in the Picardie region of France. This may lead you to wonder, is GREY GOOSE wheat free? The answer is more complex than a simple yes or no, involving the science of distillation that fundamentally changes the nature of the spirit.

While many vodkas can be made from potatoes, the premium brand Grey Goose is not one of them. The misconception likely stems from the fact that vodka can be produced from a variety of base ingredients, including grains like wheat, rye, and corn, as well as potatoes. Grey Goose is famously made using a single ingredient: fine soft winter wheat from France's Picardy region.

Hard red wheat accounts for approximately 40% of the total U.S. wheat crop and is predominantly used to produce high-protein bread and whole wheat flours. This versatile grain, known for its robust, nutty flavor and excellent gluten development, is a staple ingredient for bakers who require strong dough structure. Understanding the specific flours derived from hard red wheat is key to achieving the desired texture in your baking.

According to Absolut, both their original and flavored vodkas, including Absolut vanilla, are gluten-free. This is due to the intensive distillation process that removes gluten proteins, making the beverage safe for most individuals with gluten sensitivities.