Are you looking for gluten-free and vegan options at wineries in Wheat Ridge, Colorado? If so, you're in luck! Face Rock Creamery offers extra aged cheddar cheese, smoked gouda, caramelized onion, and Cottage Bakery Pane Bello. But what about the wine? Tricia Thompson, M. S., has the answer: yes, but with one caveat. When it comes to cross-contamination, it can be difficult to guarantee that a wine is gluten-free.
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Office reports that approved diluents in the United States include chitosan (a type of sugar) and pea protein. Other countries, such as Australia, often use ingredients like egg whites and gelatin. Fortunately, none of these additives contain gluten. However, some of them contain animal products, which means they may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans. For example, winemakers often use a technique called fining, which gives the final product a soft and silky texture.
Traditionally, barrel heads (the round lids) were sealed with gluten-rich wheat-based pasta, which could potentially contaminate the wine. Red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Zinfandel tend to age longer in oak barrels and are therefore more likely to be contaminated with gluten. The risk of contamination is still relatively low. If you have recently been diagnosed with a gluten intolerance and want to be absolutely sure that your wine has not been in contact with oak barrels, choose varieties aged in stainless steel tanks. Additionally, avoid flavored wine cocktails, which may include barley malt (always a source of gluten) and added flavors that may contain gluten. Fortunately, there are plenty of wineries in Wheat Ridge that offer gluten-free and vegan options.
One such winery is Possessed NV Godess Pinot Rosé (Willamette Valley), which offers a mostly gluten-free menu. You can also try Ca' del Bosco NV Cuvée Prestige 44 Extra Brut Sparkling Edition (Franciacorta). Don't miss the paella or fish caught by winemaker and owner Chris Van Alyea on his boat off the coast of San Diego!.
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