What Is Wine?

Wine is one of the world's oldest fermented beverages. Early humans likely began fermenting fruits intentionally for enjoyment, and by 8,000 BCE, winemaking had become a standardized process across Europe. Wine has long held cultural and religious importance, often symbolizing life, celebration, and community.

Wine is typically made by fermenting grapes. The flavor varies depending on grape variety, soil, climate, and production methods. Wines generally fall into these categories:

• White wines such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Grigio
• Red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir
• Sparkling wines like Champagne and Prosecco
• Dessert wines which are sweet and syrupy
• Fortified wines like Port, Sherry, or Madeira, which have spirits added

Some beverages are technically wines but aren't always categorized as such because they aren't grape-based:

• Fruit wines made from fruits like cherries, strawberries, plums, or pears
• Ciders made from fermented apples
• Mead or "honey wine" made from honey

What Is Beer?

Beer is another ancient fermented drink, with evidence of modern-style beer dating to 3,500-3,100 BCE in Iran. Like wine, beer has played important roles in cultural and religious ceremonies throughout history.

Ranked as the world's third most popular beverage after water and tea, beer is brewed and fermented from grains like wheat and barley. Additional ingredients such as fruit juice, hops, coffee, or spices may be added for flavor. Many beer styles have developed as local specialties that evolve as they spread. Common styles include:

• Light beers like lagers, pale ales, pilsners, or hefeweizens
• Dark beers like porters, stouts, and Belgian quads
• Fruity beers like sours, fruit beers, and lambics
• Specialty beers made with rice, corn, or oats

Nutrition, Calories, and Alcohol Content

How do beer and wine compare in terms of calories, nutrition, and alcohol content? Let's examine the differences.

Alcohol Content Clash

Alcohol content is measured as Alcohol By Volume (ABV), representing the percentage of alcohol in the beverage.

Wine ABV tends to be consistent within styles due to traditional winemaking practices:

• Red wines: 12-15% ABV
• White and dessert wines: 9-14% ABV
• Fortified wines: 20-25% ABV

Beer ABV varies more widely, especially with craft brewing innovation:

• Light beers: 3-4% ABV
• Strong ales and dark beers: 6-12% ABV or higher

Calorie Clash

Alcoholic beverages often don't display calorie counts because many governments don't classify alcohol as food, exempting it from standard labeling laws.

Higher alcohol content generally means more calories. Wine typically has more calories per ounce than beer and often contains more residual sugar.

Wine calories (per 5 oz serving):

• Dry wines: around 120 calories
• Sweet wines: around 140 calories
• For fewer calories, choose dry wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc

Beer calories (per 12 oz serving):

• Low-ABV beers: 100-120 calories
• High-ABV beers: 200-300 calories
• Fruit beers with real juice tend to be higher in sugar and calories

Weighing the Nutrition

Both beer and wine contain minimal fats and proteins but vary in carbohydrates. Beer typically has more carbs than wine (except sweet wines).

Beer nutrition: Contains trace B vitamins (including B12) and minerals like selenium, potassium, and magnesium from grains, but amounts are less than 2% of daily recommended intake.

Wine nutrition: Red wine contains polyphenols (antioxidants from grape skins) associated with heart health, plus small amounts of potassium and iron. However, experts agree that alcohol's risks outweigh any potential benefits from these compounds.

Comparing Health Effects

While both beverages have been promoted for health benefits, these claims should be viewed cautiously. Any potential benefits are typically outweighed by alcohol's negative effects.

Alcohol negatively impacts multiple body systems including the stomach, kidneys, bones, teeth, gut, liver, and skin. It increases cancer risk and can worsen mental health.

Bottom Line: Which Is Better?

A 2018 study concluded that "The safest level of drinking is none." If you choose to drink, mindfulness and moderation are key. Pay attention to other health factors that may compound alcohol's negative effects, including maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mental health care.

Reducing or quitting alcohol offers significant benefits and can be an act of self-care. The Quitemate app provides various resources to help you change your relationship with alcohol based on your health goals.