The Definitive Guide to Redbridge Gluten-Free Beer (2025 Review)
Redbridge, produced by Anheuser-Busch, holds a unique and foundational position in the gluten-free beverage market. Launched in 2006, it was one of the first widely distributed, mass-market beers specifically formulated to be safe for individuals managing celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Unlike many modern gluten-removed beers, Redbridge is brewed entirely without wheat or barley, relying instead on a naturally gluten-free grain: sorghum.
Understanding Redbridge requires examining its core ingredients, its production process, and its enduring relevance in a rapidly evolving market of craft gluten-free alternatives.
Understanding the Sorghum Base
Redbridge is fundamentally a sorghum beer. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is an ancient grain that provides the necessary starches for fermentation without introducing gluten proteins (gliadin and glutenin). This choice of ingredient is crucial for ensuring the product meets strict gluten-free labeling standards.
Sorghum vs. Traditional Malt
Traditional beer relies on malted barley for enzymes and fermentable sugars, which also imparts characteristic flavors and body. Sorghum, while providing the necessary sugars, requires specific brewing adjustments to achieve a flavor profile acceptable to beer drinkers.
- Flavor Profile: Sorghum often lends a slightly tart, cider-like, or fruity note to the beer, which can distinguish it from barley-based lagers. Redbridge balances this with hops and rice to achieve a clean, slightly sweet, and refreshing finish.
- Body and Head Retention: Sorghum beers can sometimes lack the robust body and stable head retention of barley beers. Redbridge is formulated to mitigate these issues, offering a medium body and standard carbonation typical of an American lager.
Production and Gluten Safety Standards
For consumers with celiac disease, the manufacturing process is as critical as the ingredients. Redbridge is produced under rigorous controls to ensure zero cross-contamination with gluten-containing grains.
Gluten-Free Certification and Labeling
Redbridge meets the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standard for gluten-free labeling, meaning it contains less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. Because it is brewed exclusively with naturally gluten-free ingredients (sorghum, rice, and hops), it avoids the complex testing and potential risks associated with the ‘gluten-removed’ category of beers.
This inherent safety profile makes Redbridge a reliable choice for those who must strictly adhere to a gluten-free diet. The transparency of its ingredient list—sorghum, water, rice, and hops—provides peace of mind.
Redbridge Taste Profile and Brewing Characteristics
Redbridge is generally classified as an American Amber Lager, though its sorghum base gives it unique characteristics. It is designed to be highly approachable and sessionable, appealing to a broad audience accustomed to mainstream domestic lagers.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear, amber color with moderate carbonation. |
| Aroma | Subtle notes of sweet malt (from the sorghum), mild hops, and a hint of fruitiness. |
| Taste | Clean, crisp, and slightly sweet upfront, finishing dry. Lacks the heavy, yeasty flavor sometimes found in craft GF beers. |
| ABV | Typically around 4.0% alcohol by volume, making it a lighter option. |
For those transitioning to a gluten-free lifestyle, Redbridge often serves as an excellent entry point due to its familiar, non-challenging flavor profile. It pairs exceptionally well with classic American fare, such as burgers, grilled meats, and gluten-free pizza.
Availability and Finding Redbridge Beer Gluten Free Near Me
One of Redbridge’s greatest strengths is its widespread distribution, a direct benefit of being owned by Anheuser-Busch. While many smaller craft gluten-free breweries have limited regional reach, Redbridge is often available nationally, including in many standard grocery stores, large chain retailers, and bars that stock limited gluten-free options.
Locating Redbridge
- Major Retailers: Check large supermarket chains and big-box stores (e.g., Walmart, Target). These often carry Redbridge alongside other mainstream beers.
- Beverage Distributors: Local liquor stores and dedicated beer distributors are reliable sources.
- Online Locators: The official Anheuser-Busch website or major online alcohol delivery services often feature product locators that can pinpoint retailers stocking Redbridge in your area.
- Restaurants and Bars: Due to its mainstream appeal and reliable gluten-free status, Redbridge is frequently the default gluten-free beer option offered in casual dining establishments.
Redbridge vs. The Competition: Market Positioning
The gluten-free beer market has diversified significantly since Redbridge’s debut. Today, the market is broadly divided into two categories:
1. Naturally Gluten-Free (Sorghum/Rice Based)
Redbridge falls squarely into this category. These beers are inherently safe because they use non-gluten grains. Other examples include dedicated sorghum brews or rice-based lagers.
2. Gluten-Removed (Enzyme Treated)
These beers are brewed using traditional barley malt but treated with an enzyme (like Brewers Clarex) that breaks down the gluten proteins. While these often test below 20 ppm and are labeled ‘gluten-free’ in the U.S., they may still pose risks for the most sensitive individuals, as the testing methods for hydrolyzed gluten are sometimes debated within the celiac community.
Why Redbridge Remains Relevant:
Despite the rise of complex craft options, Redbridge offers consistency, affordability, and guaranteed safety (due to its sorghum base). It serves as the reliable, accessible, and budget-friendly choice, contrasting with the often higher price points and limited availability of specialized craft gluten-free IPAs or stouts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Redbridge
Is Redbridge safe for people with Celiac Disease?
Yes. Redbridge is brewed using sorghum and rice, which are naturally gluten-free grains. It meets the FDA standard of less than 20 ppm of gluten and is widely considered a safe option for individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity. Its production process is designed to prevent cross-contamination.
What is the primary ingredient in Redbridge beer?
The primary fermentable ingredient in Redbridge is sorghum. It also includes rice, water, and hops.
Does Redbridge taste like regular beer?
Redbridge is formulated to taste similar to a light American lager. While it is crisp and refreshing, some drinkers note a slight difference due to the sorghum base, which can impart a subtle sweetness or fruitiness not present in barley beers. It is generally considered a good substitute for mainstream domestic beers.
How does Redbridge compare to gluten-removed beers like Omission?
Redbridge is naturally gluten-free (sorghum-based), meaning it never contained barley gluten. Gluten-removed beers (like Omission) are made from barley but treated with an enzyme to break down gluten proteins. While both may test below 20 ppm, many highly sensitive individuals prefer naturally gluten-free options like Redbridge for maximum safety assurance.
Is Redbridge available in cans or just bottles?
Redbridge is typically available in standard 12-ounce glass bottles. Availability in cans may vary by region and distributor, but bottles are the standard format.
What is the shelf life of Redbridge?
Like most commercial beers, Redbridge has a shelf life of several months when stored properly (cool, dark place). Always check the ‘Best By’ date printed on the packaging for optimal freshness.
Are there other gluten-free products from Anheuser-Busch?
While Anheuser-Busch focuses primarily on traditional beer, Redbridge remains their flagship and most widely distributed dedicated gluten-free product. They also offer various hard seltzers and ciders which are naturally gluten-free, but Redbridge is their specific gluten-free beer offering.
Take Action: Locating Redbridge
If you are seeking a reliable, widely available, and certified safe gluten-free beer, Redbridge is an excellent choice. Its consistent quality and national distribution make it a staple for the gluten-free community.
To find Redbridge beer gluten free near you, utilize the official product locator tools provided by Anheuser-Busch or check the inventory of major national retailers. You can also ask your local beverage distributor to stock it if they do not currently carry it.
For more comprehensive information on safe ingredients and living gluten free, consult our extensive guides.
References
- Celiac Disease Foundation. Understanding Gluten-Free Labeling and the FDA Standard. 2025. https://celiac.org/ — This resource details the regulatory requirements for gluten-free labeling in the United States, confirming the safety threshold of 20 ppm.
- Brewers Association. The Rise of Sorghum and Alternative Grains in Modern Brewing. 2025. https://www.brewersassociation.org/statistics-and-data/market-segments/gluten-free-beer/ — An industry analysis detailing the growth and technical challenges associated with brewing with alternative grains like sorghum and rice.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Guidance for Industry: Gluten-Free Labeling of Foods. 2025. https://www.fda.gov/ — Official FDA documentation outlining the legal definition and enforcement standards for products labeled as gluten-free, which Redbridge adheres to.
- Anheuser-Busch. Redbridge Product Information and Ingredient Transparency. 2025. https://www.anheuser-busch.com/brands/redbridge.html — Official corporate information confirming the use of sorghum and rice as the primary ingredients and the brand’s commitment to gluten-free safety.
Last Updated on October 13, 2025 by Amelia Hayes
