How to Drink Like a European: The Benefits of Moderate Wine Drinking

The start of a new year often means the start of new habits. And for some, those new habits start with a “dry January” to give their mind and body a break. And also a chance to reset and reflect on the influence of alcohol in their lives with mental clarity – whether they drink moderately or feel they have a healthy relationship with alcohol.

But when January ends, what’s the next step? 

We believe you can still enjoy the wine you love and have a healthy relationship with alcohol by embracing a life of moderation. There are many benefits to drinking wine and other European cultures have learned how to weave moderate wine consumption into their lifestyles without compromising their health.

So whether you’re taking a break from alcohol or are looking to reset your habits, read on to learn more about wine, moderation, and how to enjoy life like a European.

The benefits of moderate wine drinking

What is moderate wine drinking?

Moderate alcohol drinking means up to 1 drink a day for women and up to 2 drinks a day for men. For wine, a “drink” means 5 fluid ounces (148 milliliters).

So yes, you could drink a daily glass of wine based on these guidelines. But it’s not a bad idea to give your body a break by skipping a day or 2.

What are the health benefits of drinking wine?

In moderation, wine is the healthiest choice of any other alcoholic beverage – with red wine edging out white wine.

With its high levels of antioxidants – called polyphenols – wine has shown to lower bad cholesterol, keep your heart healthy, regulate blood sugar, reduce the risk of cancer, reduce the risk of depression, and has positive effects on the digestive system (to name a few things).

Wine drinking in other countries

Other countries seem to understand the benefits of wine and have adopted moderate wine drinking into their cultures.

In France, Spain, and Italy, wine drinking is a social activity paired with food. It’s not about getting drunk. It’s about enjoying the food you’re eating and the people you’re with. Often, over an hour or two, they’ll drink 1 or 2 glasses of wine. And when the meal is done, most will stop drinking altogether.

So as your dry January comes to a close, start thinking like a European by only drinking your wine when it’s paired with a meal and good company. You’ll reap the health benefits of wine and good food, along with the psychological benefits from social interaction.

Healthy dishes to pair with wine

The beauty of wine is that it comes in many varieties that can paired with many foods. And to help keep you focused on embracing a life of moderation, here are a few ideas for healthy dishes to pair with your next glass of wine.

Salmon with Rosé

Whether you grill, poach, or bake your salmon, Rosé is the perfect choice to balance the rich, oily layers of the fish. Try this grilled salmon or this pan-seared salmon.

Chicken with Chardonnay

Chardonnay and chicken make a happy marriage. Oaked Chardonnay can handle more intense dishes, while Unoaked Chardonnay pairs well with crisp, delicate foods. Try this roasted chicken or this healthy chicken piccata.

Vegetables with Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is a versatile wine that can handle just about anything – so it makes it a wonderful choice for a vegetarian meal. Try this creamy vegetable risotto or this portobello mushroom burger.

At Rove Estate, we wish you a happy, healthy new year! Slainte!