3. It could assist in lowering your cholesterol

Which is great news, but it depends on the particular type of red wine (or red grape juice) you use.

A study from the Universidad Complutense de Madrid in Spain has shown that Tempranillo red grapes—which are used to make certain red wines, like Rioja—may actually have a significant effect on cholesterol levels.

Researchers discovered that healthy study participants who consumed the same grape supplement found in red wine saw their LDL (aka their “bad” cholesterol) levels decrease by 9%. Participants with high cholesterol experienced a drop of 12%.

4. It could help to protect your heart

Polyphenols – the antioxidants found in red wine – can help to keep blood vessels flexible and reduce the risk of unwanted clotting.

Professor John Folts, who specialises in cardiovascular medicine at University of Wisconsin-Madison, told Today: “They’re nearly as effective as aspirin.”

However, as is always the case with alcohol, remember to drink responsibly; too much alcohol can prove damaging to the heart. Or, y’know, opt for the red grape juice version: polyphenols can be found in grape juice, grape skin and grape seeds, too.

5. It could support your gut health

“Red wine contains polyphenols, a category of plant-based compounds which are packed with antioxidants and potential health benefits,” explains Dr. Macarena Staudenmaier, Chief Medical Officer at Jerms.

“One study from King’s College London found that moderate red wine drinkers had a more diverse gut microbiome (more bacterial species, a marker of gut health) compared to people who drank beer, cider, white wine or spirits.”

12 surprising health benefits of mulled wine (from increased longevity to better gut health)