In the long history of wine culture, red wine and white wine each play a unique role. Not only do they have different colors and flavors, but they also seem to bring different feelings to people. There is a saying that is often circulated: “Red wine is more intoxicating than white wine.” Is this view really tenable? Today, we will have an in-depth exploration to uncover this mystery.
Alcohol content: not a decisive factor
First of all, when it comes to “intoxicating”, the most directly related thing is the alcohol content. However, it cannot be concluded that red wine with a high alcohol content is necessarily more intoxicating than white wine. In fact, the alcohol content of red wine is usually between 8% and 15%, while the alcohol content of white wine, especially strong white wine, can easily reach over 40% or even higher. Judging from the numbers, liquor seems to be “naturally” more “intoxicating”.
Absorption speed: the “gentle trap” of red wine
But why do some people think red wine makes people drunk more easily? A key factor is involved here – the absorption speed of alcohol. The alcohol in red wine is often accompanied by rich polyphenols (such as anthocyanins, tannins, etc.). These components can help the alcohol enter the bloodstream through the gastric mucosa faster, thus producing a more obvious feeling of drunkenness in a shorter period of time. In contrast, although liquor has a high alcohol concentration, its ingredients are relatively simple, which sometimes makes people feel that its “stamina” is slower to come on.
Drinking habits: dual considerations of quantity and speed
Furthermore, drinking habits also greatly affect the degree of drunkenness. Many people tend to enjoy red wine slowly, and a glass of red wine may accompany the entire dinner. This drinking method spreads the alcohol intake. Liquor, especially in social occasions, is often accompanied by customs such as toasting and toasting, which unconsciously speeds up the drinking speed, which invisibly increases the alcohol intake per unit time, making it easier to get drunk.
Personal physique: a variable that cannot be ignored
Ultimately, each person’s physical condition, liver’s hangover ability, and sensitivity to alcohol are unique. Some people may be more sensitive to certain components in red wine and may feel uncomfortable quickly even if the alcohol content is not high; while other people may have better tolerance to the high alcohol concentration of white wine. Therefore, saying that red wine must be easier to get drunk than white wine ignores the important factor of human body differences.
To sum up, the statement “red wine is more intoxicating than white wine” is not accurate. It depends more on multiple factors such as actual alcohol intake, drinking speed, personal physique, and drinking habits. Whether it’s red wine or white wine, drinking it in moderation and enjoying the pleasure it brings is key.
