In many developed countries with universal health care, alcohol is significantly taxed in part to contribute to health care costs. Canada is one example and, as

In many developed countries with universal health care, alcohol is significantly taxed in part to contribute to health care costs. Canada is one example and, as a result, alcohol is generally much more expensive than in USA. This despite the large volumes and purchasing power of the provincial liquour boards (as private sales are limited, to varying degrees according to province).