Let’s be honest — game day without beer just feels wrong. But if you’re living the gluten-free life, grabbing any old six-pack isn’t an option. The good news? There are some solid gluten-free brews out there that bring the flavour, the fizz, and the football-friendly vibes — without wrecking your gut.
We cracked open a bunch of gluten-free beers and put them to the test — taste, texture, drinkability, and, of course, how well they pair with wings. Here’s the lineup.
🏆 Our Top Picks for Game Day
1. Two Bays Brewing Co.
Type: Pale Ale / XPA / Session Ale
ABV: ~4.5% (varies by style)
Gluten-Free Status: 100% Gluten-Free
Taste Test Notes: For something craftier—flavourful profiles, think juicy hops and tropical notes. A Champion Specialty Beer win at the 2023 Australian Independent Beer Awards (Session Ale)
Game Day Pairing: Tacos, garlic prawns, or gourmet sliders.
Score: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
2. O’Brien (Rebellion Brewing)
Type: Belgian Ale, Pale Ale, Premium Lager, Brown Ale
ABV: -4.5%
Gluten-Free Status: 100% Gluten-Free
Taste Test Notes: Distinctively elegant and complex. Their Belgian Ale notably won gold at the Australian International Beer Awards.
Game Day Pairing: Wings, nachos, or anything cheesy.
Score: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
3. Wilde Beer
Type: Pale Ale, Raspberry Ale, Crisp Lager
ABV: 3.5–4.2%
Gluten-Free Status: 100% Gluten-Free
Taste Test Notes: Crafted entirely gluten‑free, Light, fruity, and seasonable beer.
Game Day Pairing: Veggie platters, or light seafood bites.
Score: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ (4.5/5)
4. Ghostfish Grapefruit IPA
Type: IPA
ABV: 5.5%
Gluten-Free Status: 100% Gluten-Free
Taste Test Notes: Bright and hoppy with a punch of grapefruit. Complex but not overwhelming. Ideal for IPA fans missing their hop fix.
Game Day Pairing: Spicy snacks, guac, and chips.
Score: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
5. New Grist Pilsner by Lakefront Brewery
Type: Pilsner
ABV: 5.1%
Gluten-Free Status: 100% Gluten-Free
Taste Test Notes: Super refreshing with a hint of green apple. Very clean finish. Great for hot game days.
Game Day Pairing: Soft pretzels, popcorn, deli meats.
Score: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
🏈 Final Thoughts: Raise Your Glass on Game Day
You don’t need to miss out on the classic beer-and-snacks combo just because you’re skipping gluten. Whether you’re into hop-forward IPAs, easy lagers, or something citrusy and refreshing, there’s a gluten-free beer out there for you.
Pro tip: Stock a variety so everyone at your watch party can find a favourite — gluten-free or not.
