Social correlates probably play a significant role. Moderate drinking may be correlated with sociality and preparing meals for one's family/ friends. Strong so

Social correlates probably play a significant role. Moderate drinking may be correlated with sociality and preparing meals for one's family/ friends. Strong social ties and attention to diet are both correlated with good health outcomes. I think we see a hint of these lifestyle correlates in the findings that red wine is the best vehicle for alcohol consumption. The alcohol itself might be mildly harmful, but for people who are able to moderate their intake, the pleasure of imbibing and its associated rituals more than makes up for it.