A new study suggests that wine may carry lower health risks than beer or hard liquor. In a March 19 news release, the American College of Cardiology outlined findings from the research, which analyzed how alcohol type and intake levels impact the risk of death.

The study, to be presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session from March 28–30, followed more than 340,000 British adults between 2006 and 2022.

Using UK Biobank data, researchers analyzed participant questionnaires. The adults were placed into one of four groups based on their alcohol consumption levels.

Key Mortality Findings

The study followed over 340,000 British adults from the UK Biobank for an average of 13 years, revealing distinct risk patterns: 

• Moderate Wine Drinkers: Associated with a 21% lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) death compared to never or occasional drinkers.
• Beer, Cider, and Spirit Drinkers: Even low intake was linked to a 9% higher risk of cardiovascular death.
• Heavy Drinkers (Any Type): Linked to a 24% higher risk of all-cause mortality, a 36% higher risk of cancer death, and a 14% higher risk of heart disease death.

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Categorization of Alcohol Intake

Researchers grouped participants based on weekly consumption (measured in grams of pure alcohol): 

Group Men (Grams/Week)Women (Grams/Week)Never/Occasional< 20< 20Low20–14020–70Moderate140–28070–140High> 280> 140

(Note: A standard drink is approximately 14 grams of pure alcohol).

Potential Explanations for the "Wine Effect"

Lead author Dr. Zhangling Chen and other researchers suggested several reasons for wine's differing profile: 

• Compounds: Red wine contains polyphenols and antioxidants which may improve heart health.
• Consumption Habits: Wine is more often consumed with meals, whereas beer and spirits are frequently consumed between meals.
• Lifestyle Factors: Wine drinkers often exhibit healthier overall diets and lower rates of smoking compared to those who prefer other alcohol types. 

Experts, including those from the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking, caution that because this was an observational study, it shows an association rather than direct cause and effect.

High alcohol consumption also increased overall health risks. People with high alcohol intake were 24% more likely to die from any cause. They were also 36% more likely to die from cancer and 14% more likely to die from cardiovascular disease.

CAUTION: Wine drinkers may throw these health conclusions around at your next party or while sitting on the pier.