The Joy of Wine Amidst the Alcohol Warnings
I can not picture my life without wine. I have embraced wine since my late twenties, and I have known many marvelous people in New York and beyond because of the adventures I have unfolded while studying, working, or sharing a bottle of wine.
Hence, I had to make a word in a year that has bombarded us with warnings of the dangers of alcohol. For me, wine is not just a drink but a source of joy and inspiration. I don’t drink wine every day, but I speak about wine every day. Therefore, this new advisory of the U.S. Surgeon General highlights the link between alcohol consumption and an increased risk of several types of cancer. This advisory, a call to action that many feel has been needed for years, emphasizes that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption when it comes to cancer risk. While this message is crucial for public health, it can also feel jarring for those of us who appreciate the cultural and social aspects of alcohol, particularly in the world of wine.
I understand the dissonance between the stark alcohol warnings and the lived experience of many. With its rich history, diverse flavors, and ability to unite people, wine holds a special place in our society. Witnessing the joy and connection that wine brings to people is undeniable. It’s understandable to feel conflicted when faced with the Surgeon General’s advisory, especially when personal experiences seem to contradict the stark warnings.
I am not free of sin. Let’s be honest: as someone who works in the wine industry, I’m often presented with countless opportunities to indulge. Whether it’s a tasting event or a celebratory dinner, the glasses of wine can easily add up. But I’m very aware of my consumption.
Like you, I also found a reason to celebrate. Turning 40 is a significant milestone, and after overcoming health challenges, it felt like a triumph over adversity. Indulging in a few glasses of vintage 2015 champagne felt fitting to mark the occasion. Those celebratory glasses of champagne? That was an exception, not the rule. Most of the time, I’m swirling, sniffing, and spitting, not swallowing at a tasting. I drink a glass of wine at home with my dinner every other day. Food and wine are pleasures and daily experiences that I often enjoy. It’s a delicate balance that any wine lover and professional has to master – appreciating the nuances of wine without succumbing to overindulgence.
The media’s portrayal of alcohol’s dangers can feel overwhelming. Headlines screaming about the absence of a safe alcohol level are prevalent everywhere. From esteemed publications like the New York Times and Forbes, The Atlantic to lifestyle magazines like Cosmopolitan and Air Mail. The reality is likely more nuanced.
Media narrative and facts can seem at odds with the reality we observe in our communities, where wine continues to be a source of pleasure and connection. It’s important to remember that the media often focuses on the extremes to capture attention.
On the one hand, as a wine educator, my business has become more profitable with growing private client requests. During the classes, I hear more people interested in getting more engaged with stories behind the wine. On the digital side, my blog has hit 9000 visits per month in the last year. It has grown by 5000 visits as it was 4000 by the end of 2023. Most of my visitors find me on Google Search. On their mobile, the queries such as ‘Good Champagne,’ ‘Rose’, and ‘Premium Champagne‘ lead into my website. Yet my reach is still small, comparable to large media corporations, is a niche in the Northeast. Whether online or offline, there are still generations of people all together looking for stories behind the wine, honest reviews, and recommendations.
Every cork is a story; many freelancers have been predicted, engaging, and spreading their worth beyond Instagram-worthy photos. On the other hand, Dry January has become a whole topic on Instagram. Many sober-curious and sober lifetime proponents share how being sober has given them many benefits. Some of them are reduced inflammation and improved overall sleep. I can attest that if by any chance I drink two wine glasses a day, it will take me double the amount of time to sleep.
I have been a proponent of mindful drinking for many years, and that’s where my standpoint relies. This approach of grounding myself before drinking, whether for social or professional reasons, and breathing exercises has helped me and has worked for me. Ultimately, the decision of how to approach alcohol consumption rests with each individual. The Surgeon General’s advisory serves as a critical reminder of the potential risks. However, it doesn’t negate the positive experiences many associate with moderate alcohol consumption.
Information is key to making informed choices. As a sommelier and wine connoisseur, I know that some additives are added to wine for coloring or other purposes. I liked the idea of alcohol warning labels. I want to know the ingredients beyond the sulfite warning we already see. As we navigate this complex landscape of alcohol warnings, it’s essential to maintain a balanced perspective. Lets appreciate the joys of wine while remaining mindful of our habits.
Martha Cisneros Paja is a wine educator, founder of Latinas Wine Club Inc. and author of Mexican Wines: A guide to Fall in Love with Wines of Mexico . Read more about one of the most hard-working Latinas in Wine here.
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
