After a long day of taking care of your adult responsibilities, you might want to reach for an alcoholic beverage. But, did you know that there’s one out there that can be beneficial to your health? 

“The healthiest red wines are generally dry reds like pinot noir and cabernet sauvignon due to their tendency to have the highest antioxidation effect,” board-certified physician assistant and lead instructor at Global Emergency Medics, Gavin Dawson PA-C WEMT, told 21Ninety. 

Health benefits associated with drinking pinot noir

General practitioner at Broadgate GP, Johannes Uys GP, told 21Ninety about three major benefits to drinking pinot noir related to mental health, heart health, and the overall health of the body. 

Helps reduce inflammation

Resveratrol is a compound found in the skin of red grapes. “[It] has been associated with reducing inflammation and protecting against certain diseases,” the general practitioner explained.  

Beneficial for heart health

When consumed in moderation, pinot noir can positively impact heart health.

“It has been suggested that red wine can increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, commonly known as the good cholesterol,” Dr. Uys stated.

Plus, the physician added that it may also help prevent blood clot formation. 

Helps improve cognitive function

According to Dr. Uys, antioxidants found in pinot noir can help improve brain function.

“Moderate red wine consumption has been associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline and certain neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s disease,” the doctor mentioned.  

Additionally, Dawson says incorporating a glass of red wine into a balanced dinner not only helps control alcohol cravings but also allows you to indulge in pleasurable drinking habits without the negative health effects of alcohol overconsumption.

How much pinot noir leads to health benefits

Dawson noted that a daily five-ounce glass of red wine, with an ABV around 12 percent, is a recommended way to receive the health benefits associated with drinking red wine. That being said, don’t lean on the glass of the calming beverage to solve all of your health problems.

“Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, are all essential for maintaining overall health,” Dr. Uys stated. 

Plus, both experts warn that overconsumption can prevent you from benefiting from the compounds in red wine. Even worse, it can cause serious harm.  

“Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage, addiction, and various other health complications,” the general practitioner warned.

Carmel Road

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Photo Courtesy of Reserve Bar

Carmel Road’s Central Coast Pinot Noir is a woman-owned red wine from California. It has an ABV of 13.5 percent. This United States wine is aged in French oak barrels. 

Its sweeter taste boasts notes of cherry, strawberry, vanilla, and black tea. More importantly, the bright flavors taper off with a balanced long silky finish.

Domaine Laroque

The Domaine Laroque Cite de Carcassonne Pinot Noir 2021 is from the South of France. Meant for daily drinking, this red wine combines fruity flavors with a  hint of dried spice. 

The 12.5 percent ABV beverage also features notes of cocoa nib which comes through the medium tannins that linger on the finish. 

The Four Graces

The Four Graces Willamette Valley Pinot Noir is a United States red wine. At 13.5 percent ABV, enjoy this beverage when you’re craving something sweet but not too sweet. 

Notes of black cherry, red currants, and dark chocolate come through while you sip on this wine. Plus, the finish on this wine is surprisingly bright. It simmers your mood down without taking you out.

Josephine Dubois

Josephine Dubois Pinot Noir 2021 is a French wine that’s light on the palette. The aroma of raspberry, red currants, and wild strawberries waft towards with each sip. 

Boasting a sweet tangy spicy flavor, this 12.5 ABV wine pairs well with a roasted chicken dinner.

Jermann

This Jermann Red Angel In The Moonlight Pinot Nero is an Italian dream. Drinking this wine doubles as an aromatherapy session with herbaceous notes that incorporate a splash of fruitiness. 

The 13 percent ABV wine is full of body while staying light on the palette.

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