ALTHOUGH there is no real origin to National Drink Wine Day, people around the world are embracing the holiday with enthusiasm.
The unofficial, annual holiday is celebrated in effort to “reflect on the health benefits of wine.”
The National Day Calendar and Checkiday sites confirmed that National Drink Wine Day is February 18.
Founding father Benjamin Franklin once said that wine was “a constant proof that God loves us, and that he loves to see us happy.”
Wine has been a staple in social culture since it’s invention in 7000 BC. Some ancient societies worshiped wine and had deities, like the Roman Bacchus, in honor of the drink.
These days, there are nearly 8,500 commercial vineyards in the US, and at least one winery in each of the 50 states.
More than 90% of the total American wine production occurs in California, Washington and Oregon, although the Golden State is the leading production area with key regions like Napa and Sonoma.
The two fastest-growing wine regions are those you may not expect: the mid-Atlantic seaboard compromising of Maryland and Pennsylvania are seeing rapid growth, as well as western Arizona and Colorado.
Most wines, which can also be made from rice and fruit as well as grapes, range in 12.5-14.5 per cent alcohol content.
Globally, the top four wine producers in the world are Italy, Spain, France and the US.
Social media users took to Twitter to discuss their celebration plans for the day and share their bottle(s) of choice.
“I had not planned on drinking wine today but I see that Feb. 18, is Global Drink Wine Day. Who knew? Who am I to argue? So I guess @openyourwine is going to get a workout today. Salut!” one wrote.
“Happy National Drink Wine Day, or as I like to call it, Thursday,” another humorously added.
“As if I need an excuse #Drinkwineday,” one said.
“It’s #NationalDrinkWineDay, people! Bottom’s up!! #DrinkWineDay,” one user encouraged.
“Happy #DrinkWineDay! I’m so glad to have friends in my life who remind me of these important things. Cheers!”
Emerging research continues to suggest that wine, in moderation, offers several health benefits.
Wine is an anti-oxidant rich beverage that prevents cellular damage caused by inflammation and oxidative stress.
“Moderate alcohol consumption is thought to reduce risk of heart attack by increasing sensitivity to insulin, decreasing inflammation and decreasing blood clotting activity,” said Dr. Melanie R. Graber, a resident with the ABC medical news unit.
Grapes contain high levels of polyphenols, and drinking more red could significantly increase your blood antioxidant levels. Pinot Noir is thought to be the “healthiest” red choice.
Studies suggest that a compound called resveratrol in wine has anti-inflammatory properties that also may benefit your aching joints, according to Healthline.
Although it may seem counter intuitive, reports have said an occasional glass can improve mental health and reduce the risk of developing depression.
As if you need any more of a reason to drink wine, go forth and pour yourself a tipple on National Drink Wine Day!
