In defense of wine

I recently came across an article on a wine producer and physician that launched a website called “In defense of wine” in response to the hundreds of articles that have been recently published, mainly in the UK, on the risks associated with alcohol consumption, without any mention to safe drinking limits. This made me reflect on my own experience with wine.

I grew up in a family of winemakers, so wine has always been a part of my life. I remember having my first sip of my grandad’s wine at a very young age - something that would probably get him reported to the police today. Wine was a constant presence at our table, whether it was lunch or dinner, and it still is for my dad. Yet, I’ve never seen them drink too much, I would say that wine is a part of their culture. For them, and for me, wine was the accompaniment to friends or family and good food go together.

For my generation and the ones that followed, things are different. My friends and I, don’t do lunches like our parents used to. Our meals are quick, often eaten on the go, barely sitting down, already thinking about what comes next, sometimes hardly even noticing what we're eating, so we may have a glass in the evening with our dinners, when we sit down with our families and tell each other about our day, or week ends when we can have leisurely lunches or dinners.

As I grew up and became more familiar with wine, my father and grandfather passed down two key pieces of advice: never to abuse wine and alcohol in general and always choose quality over quantity. These words have stayed with me, and I try to apply them to all my choices, not just to wine. And as far as wine is concerned it worked, I always enjoyed it, but knowing that going too far would take away the pleasure and the memories.

We’re all familiar with the saying, “too much of a good thing,” and wine is no exception. While I’m not a physician, it’s clear that whether it’s wine, banana, chocolate, just any type of food, abuse or overconsumption can turn something enjoyable into a health problem. When we consume too much, not only do we stop enjoying it, but it can lead to various health issues.

On the In Defense of Wine website, you'll find a physician’s perspective on the potential benefits of wine when consumed in moderation. But for me, though, wine represents much more than the health benefits. Wine is joy, celebration, good company, and great food. That’s why I always enjoy a glass or two, all while keeping my father’s and grandfather’s advice in mind.