What Alcohol Does Not Have Gas? A Guide to Non-Carbonated Drinks

January 10, 2026 •

4 min read

Over 70% of beer sold worldwide is carbonated, making it the primary culprit for bloating and gas associated with alcohol. If you're looking for an alternative, knowing what alcohol does not have gas is key for a smoother, more comfortable drinking experience. This guide explores the best non-carbonated options, from classic spirits to still wines and clever cocktail alternatives.

Quick Summary

This article details various alcoholic beverages that are naturally non-carbonated, such as distilled spirits (vodka, gin, whiskey) and still wines. It offers insights into why these are better for avoiding gas and bloating, along with tips for non-carbonated cocktails and mixers to ensure a fizz-free drink.

Key Points

Distilled Spirits are Gas-Free: Pure distilled spirits like vodka, gin, whiskey, rum, and tequila contain no carbonation and are the safest bet for avoiding gas, especially when consumed neat or with still mixers.
Still Wines are Naturally Non-Carbonated: Most red, white, and rosé wines are naturally still, with the exception of sparkling varieties like Champagne and Prosecco.
Choose Non-Fizzy Mixers: To ensure a gas-free cocktail, use mixers like fruit juices, still water, tea, or non-alcoholic syrups instead of soda, tonic water, or sparkling water.
Check Labels for Hidden Carbonation: Some premixed canned cocktails or hard seltzers are surprisingly non-carbonated, like NOCA or Mom Water, so always check the product description.
Watch Out for Sweetness: Beyond carbonation, high sugar content in some drinks can also cause digestive discomfort, so opt for drier wines and lower-sugar mixers if you're sensitive.
Consider Still Ciders: While most commercial ciders are fizzy, traditional or artisanal 'still' ciders are a great non-carbonated alternative.

For many, the carbonation in drinks like beer, hard seltzers, and sparkling wines can lead to an uncomfortable, bloated feeling. Fortunately, a wide range of alcoholic beverages are naturally still, offering a smoother drinking experience without the bubbles. These options include all distilled spirits, still wines, and many creative non-fizzy cocktails. Understanding these categories can help you make more comfortable choices for your digestive system.

Distilled Spirits: The Ultimate Non-Fizzy Choice

Distilled spirits, also known as hard liquors, are the most reliable option for avoiding gas. The distillation process removes the carbon dioxide created during fermentation, leaving behind a pure, uncarbonated base. When enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or with a non-carbonated mixer, they offer a smooth and clean finish.

Popular Non-Carbonated Spirits

Vodka: A clear, neutral spirit, vodka is distilled and contains no gas. When mixed with still water, juice, or a non-carbonated flavored beverage, it provides a clean, bubble-free drink.
Gin: Similar to vodka, gin is a clear, distilled spirit known for its botanical flavors from juniper berries and other botanicals. As long as you avoid tonic water and opt for juice or other still mixers, gin is an excellent non-carbonated choice.
Whiskey and Scotch: These spirits are aged in wooden barrels after distillation, and the process ensures no carbonation remains. A glass of whiskey neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of still water is a classic, gas-free option.
Rum: Made from sugarcane, rum is a naturally still spirit. Whether it's light or dark, you can enjoy it without fear of fizz, provided you stick to juice-based or other still mixers.
Tequila: As a distilled spirit made from agave, tequila is inherently non-carbonated. Enjoy it as a shot or in a classic margarita made without a sparkling mixer.

Still Wines: The Naturally Elegant Option

Still wines are those that have completed their fermentation process and are not deliberately carbonated. This category includes most red, white, and rosé wines, offering a vast array of flavors and styles to suit any palate.

Choosing the Right Wine

Red Wines: Varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir are naturally still and great for sipping. Dry reds, in particular, may contain less residual sugar, which can also contribute to a gassier feeling for some individuals.
White Wines: Most white wines, such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling, are non-carbonated. Dry versions are generally preferable for those with sensitive stomachs.
Still Cider: While many commercial ciders are carbonated, still or "farmhouse" ciders are a traditional non-fizzy option, made from fermented apple juice.

Creative Non-Carbonated Cocktails and Mixers

One of the easiest ways to ensure your drink is gas-free is to carefully select your mixers. Sodas, tonic water, and sparkling juices all add fizz, but many alternatives offer great flavor without the bubbles.

Still Mixer Ideas

Juices: Fruit juices like cranberry, orange, pineapple, and lime are all excellent, naturally non-carbonated mixers.
Teas: Using iced tea or even cold-brewed herbal tea can add complex flavors to a spirit without any fizz.
Still Water: Sometimes, the simplest mixer is the best. Adding still water can dilute a spirit and make it more refreshing without adding gas.
Nonalcoholic Syrups and Cordials: Grenadine, simple syrup, and other cordials can add sweetness and flavor without any bubbles.

Non-Carbonated Cocktail Examples

Margarita: A classic margarita made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec is completely non-carbonated.
Old Fashioned: This timeless cocktail features whiskey, a sugar cube, and bitters, with no carbonated ingredients.
Vodka Cranberry: A simple, non-fizzy classic combining vodka and cranberry juice.
Manhattan: This sophisticated drink uses whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters for a smooth, bubble-free experience.

Comparison Table: Carbonated vs. Non-Carbonated Alcohol


Feature	Carbonated Beverages (e.g., Beer, Hard Seltzer)	Non-Carbonated Beverages (e.g., Spirits, Wine)
Carbonation	Contains dissolved carbon dioxide, creating fizz.	Contains no or minimal dissolved CO2; naturally flat.
Potential for Bloating	High; bubbles can expand in the stomach and intestines.	Low; lack of bubbles reduces the risk of gas and bloating.
Best for Sensitive Stomachs	Often problematic for those with gastrointestinal issues.	Generally better tolerated and easier on the digestive system.
Examples	Lager, IPA, Hard Cider (most), Prosecco, Soda Mixers.	Vodka, Gin, Whiskey, Red Wine, Still Cider, Juice Mixers.
Flavor Profile	Often crisp and biting due to carbonation.	Smooth and mellow, allowing the full flavor profile to stand out.

Conclusion

For those who experience discomfort from carbonated beverages, a wide world of gas-free alcohol awaits. From the naturally still properties of spirits like vodka, gin, and whiskey to the elegant simplicity of still wines, there are plenty of options for a smoother drinking experience. By paying attention to your choices and opting for non-carbonated mixers, you can enjoy your favorite adult beverages without the unwanted side effects of bloating and gas.

Optional Outbound Link

For more information on the impact of different alcoholic beverages on your digestive health, consider resources like the IBS Clinics website.

A Note on Sugar Content

Beyond carbonation, it's also worth noting that some individuals find that drinks with high sugar content can contribute to bloating and digestive upset. For this reason, choosing dry wines or spirits with low-sugar mixers is often a good strategy for maximum comfort. Always listen to your body and adjust your choices accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

All distilled liquors are not carbonated. This includes spirits such as vodka, gin, whiskey, rum, and tequila. They are naturally flat after the distillation process and remain so unless a carbonated mixer is added.

Still wines (red, white, and rosé) do not contain gas or carbonation. Sparkling wines like Champagne and Prosecco, however, are deliberately carbonated. For a gas-free option, choose a still variety.

Yes, drinking alcohol, particularly carbonated beverages like beer and hard seltzer, can cause gas and bloating. The dissolved carbon dioxide can expand in your stomach, leading to discomfort. High sugar content in some drinks can also contribute to digestive issues.

Excellent non-carbonated cocktails include the classic margarita, an Old Fashioned, a vodka cranberry, or a Manhattan. For a simpler option, a spirit mixed with any fruit juice or still water will also be fizz-free.

While most hard seltzers are carbonated, some newer brands and products are specifically made without bubbles. For example, NOCA is a brand known for its non-carbonated spiked waters and teas.

Yes, for many people with sensitive stomachs or IBS, non-carbonated alcohol is a gentler option. Avoiding the bubbles from fizzy drinks can help reduce or prevent bloating, gas, and irritation to the digestive tract.

To avoid gas, use non-carbonated mixers like fruit juices (cranberry, pineapple, orange), still water, iced tea, or non-alcoholic syrups. Steer clear of tonic water, soda, and sparkling water.