Responsible Drinking
Wine is meant to be enjoyed responsibly. Learn about safe drinking practices, Australian guidelines, and how to appreciate wine as part of a healthy lifestyle.
The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) provides evidence-based guidelines for safe alcohol consumption in Australia:
Recommended Limits
- • Healthy adults: No more than 10 standard drinks per week
- • Daily maximum: No more than 4 standard drinks on any day
- • Alcohol-free days: At least 2 days per week without alcohol
- • Pregnancy: No safe level - avoid alcohol completely
- • Under 18: Alcohol is not recommended for anyone under 18
What is a Standard Drink?
A standard drink contains 10 grams of pure alcohol. For wine:
- • 100ml of wine (13.5% alcohol) = 1 standard drink
- • 150ml glass of wine (12% alcohol) = 1.4 standard drinks
- • 750ml bottle of wine (13.5% alcohol) = 7.5 standard drinks
Potential Benefits
Moderate wine consumption may offer some benefits when part of a balanced lifestyle:
- • Social enjoyment and cultural appreciation
- • Antioxidants (particularly in red wine)
- • Relaxation and stress relief in moderation
- • Enhanced dining experiences
Health Risks
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to serious health problems:
- • Liver disease and cardiovascular problems
- • Increased cancer risk
- • Mental health issues
- • Dependency and addiction
- • Impaired judgement and accidents
Never Drink and Drive
There is no safe level of alcohol when driving. Even small amounts can impair your ability to drive safely. Always plan alternative transport.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
No amount of alcohol is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Alcohol can cause serious harm to developing babies.
Medication Interactions
Alcohol can interact dangerously with many medications. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist about alcohol consumption when taking medication.
Wine appreciation is about quality, not quantity. Here's how to enjoy wine responsibly:
Before Drinking
- • Eat a proper meal before drinking
- • Plan your transport home
- • Set limits for yourself
- • Choose quality over quantity
- • Drink plenty of water
While Drinking
- • Sip slowly and savour the wine
- • Alternate with water or non-alcoholic drinks
- • Don't drink on an empty stomach
- • Know your limits and stick to them
- • Avoid drinking games or pressure
It's important to recognise when alcohol consumption becomes problematic:
Warning Signs
- • Drinking more than intended regularly
- • Feeling unable to control drinking
- • Drinking to cope with stress or emotions
- • Neglecting responsibilities due to drinking
- • Relationship problems caused by drinking
- • Drinking despite health problems
- • Needing more alcohol to feel the same effects
When to Seek Help
If you're concerned about your drinking or someone else's, it's important to seek help early. Many effective treatments and support services are available.
Age-Related Factors
- • Young adults (18-25): Higher risk of binge drinking
- • Older adults (65+): Increased sensitivity to alcohol
- • Medication interactions: More common with age
Health Conditions
- • Liver disease: Avoid alcohol completely
- • Heart conditions: Consult your doctor
- • Mental health: Alcohol can worsen symptoms
- • Diabetes: Monitor blood sugar carefully
As a wine recommendation platform, cork is committed to promoting responsible alcohol consumption:
- • Quality Focus: We emphasise wine appreciation and quality over quantity
- • Educational Content: Providing information about responsible drinking practices
- • Age Verification: Ensuring all users are 18+ before accessing our services
- • Moderation Messaging: Promoting wine as part of a balanced lifestyle
- • No Excessive Consumption: Our recommendations focus on enjoyment, not intoxication
- • Support Resources: Connecting users with help when needed
If you need support with alcohol-related concerns, help is available:
National Support Services
National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline: 1800 250 015 (24/7)
Lifeline Crisis Support: 13 11 14 (24/7)
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Alcoholics Anonymous Australia: aa.org.au
Online Resources
DrinkWise Australia: drinkwise.org.au
Hello Sunday Morning: hellosundaymorning.org
Your Room (NSW): yourroom.health.nsw.gov.au
Australian Guidelines: nhmrc.gov.au/health-advice/alcohol
Professional Help
Speak to your GP, contact a local community health centre, or call the services above for confidential advice and support. Early intervention is most effective.
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Support is available, and recovery is possible with the right help and commitment.