Is Captain Morgan Gluten-Free? What Every Celiac Needs to Know

Updated: April 20th, 2025

Imagine this: you’re eyeing a bottle of Captain Morgan, dreaming of a spiced rum cocktail that hits all the right spots, but your gluten-free lifestyle has you pausing, label in hand, wondering if this drink’s safe.

So, let’s cut to the chase: Is Captain Morgan Rum gluten-free?

The answer? Mostly yes, not always. Some spiced and flavored varieties may contain hidden gluten, and the aging process can introduce cross-contamination risks. If you want to sip safely without second-guessing every drop, here’s what you need to know.

Want a complete guide to gluten-free alcohol?

Good news: Rum is made from sugarcane, not wheat, barley, or rye. That means, in its purest form, rum is naturally gluten-free. The distillation process removes any residual gluten proteins, making unflavored, traditional rums a safe bet for gluten-free drinkers.

And yep, rum really is gluten-free, even Beyond Celiac backs it up, noting that distilled spirits like rum are safe for those with celiac disease.

But here’s where things get tricky. Once rum leaves the still, it doesn’t always stay pure.

Some spiced or flavored rums, including some Captain Morgan varieties, contain added ingredients like spices, caramel coloring, or natural flavors. Some of these ingredients might have gluten, even in trace amounts. That’s why not all Captain Morgan rums are 100% safe.

List of Gluten-Free Captain Morgan Rums (Safe Picks)

Here’s what we know for sure:

✅ Gluten-Free Captain Morgan Rums
These rums are widely considered gluten-free and safe for celiacs:

• Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum
• Captain Morgan White Rum
• Captain Morgan 100 Proof Spiced Rum
• Captain Morgan Silver Spiced Rum

🚨 Captain Morgan Rums with Potential Gluten Risks
These flavored rums may contain gluten due to added ingredients:

• Captain Morgan Sliced Apple
• Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum
• Captain Morgan Private Stock
• Captain Morgan Coconut Rum
• Captain Morgan Pineapple Rum
• Captain Morgan Gingerbread Spiced
• Captain Morgan Orange Vanilla Twist

Rule of Thumb: If it’s flavored, double-check before you sip!

Hidden Gluten in Captain Morgan? What to Watch Out For

Even if your rum starts gluten-free, there are some unexpected ways gluten can sneak into your drink:

• Aging in Oak Barrels – Some barrels may have been used for wheat-based alcohols, introducing trace gluten. While the risk is low, it’s worth noting.

• Pre-Made Drink Mixes – If you’re mixing Captain Morgan with a store-bought cocktail mix, check the label. Some mixes contain gluten-based thickeners or additives.

• Flavored Rums – Many have “natural flavors” or caramel coloring, which aren’t always gluten-free. When in doubt, contact the manufacturer or choose an unflavored rum.

Tips for Drinking Captain Morgan Safely on a Gluten-Free Diet

Want to enjoy your gluten-free rum without the stress? Follow these simple tips:

• Stick to the basics – Choose plain, unflavored rum like Captain Morgan White or Spiced Rum.
• Check the label – Look for “gluten-free” certification on the bottle. If it’s not labeled, proceed with caution.
• Call the brand – When in doubt, contact Captain Morgan’s customer service to confirm the gluten-free status of specific varieties.
• Be careful with cocktails – If you’re mixing your drink, choose gluten-free mixers and fresh ingredients. Avoid pre-made, sugary cocktail mixes unless they’re explicitly labeled gluten-free.

Gluten-Free Rum Alternatives to Captain Morgan

If you’re unsure about Captain Morgan, here are other gluten-free rum brands that are safe bets:

• Bacardi – All Bacardi rums, including flavored varieties, are certified gluten-free.
• Malibu – The popular coconut rum and all other Malibu flavors are gluten-free.
• Havana Club – Classic and smooth, this Cuban rum is gluten-free.
• Mount Gay – Aged to perfection, Mount Gay rums are safe for celiacs.
• Sailor Jerry – The status is uncertain, so proceed with caution if you have celiac disease.

TLDR

✔️ Yes, Captain Morgan’s Original Spiced and White Rum are gluten-free.
⚠️ Flavored varieties may contain gluten, double-check before you drink.
💡 When in doubt, choose Bacardi or another certified gluten-free rum.

Tell me in the comments: What’s your go-to gluten-free cocktail?

Share this with your gluten-free friends, everyone deserves a good drink without worrying.

📌 Save this post for later so you can reference it next time you hit the liquor store!

Check out our ultimate gluten-free beer guide.

FAQ Is Captain Morgan Rum Gluten-Free?

Please note: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes.