Is it true that beer is better for you than wine? Time to bust some alcohol myths.

Some alcohol beverages like spirits are ‘hard’ and others like beer are ‘soft’.

False. Spirits contain more alcohol by volume than most wines, which contain more than most beers. But, despite some popular notions, there’s no such thing as ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ alcohol, or, as it’s called in some places, ‘hot’ and ‘cold’ drinks. Beer, wine, distilled spirits and mixed drinks all contain the same type of alcohol called ethanol, which is responsible for the effects you feel regardless of what you’re drinking.

A common standard drink size is used in all countries to ensure that servings of beer, wine and spirits are the same.

False. There’s no single standard drink size across the world. Many countries do not have an official 'standard' definition for the size of drink. but many countries do. Where these exist, they are based on the amount of alcohol. Depending on the country, a standard drink or unit may range from eight to 14 grams of ethanol ⁽²⁾. However, each ‘standard’ serving of beer, wine or spirits is defined in exactly the same way and contains exactly the same amount of alcohol. In practice, drinks are often not served in standard sizes, but the concept of a standard drink is important and helps to understand how much you are drinking.

The effect alcohol has on you depends on whether you’re drinking beer, wine or spirits.

False. Beer, wine and spirits all contain the same type of alcohol, ethanol, which has the same effect on your body regardless of what you’re drinking. The important thing is how much ethanol you’re drinking and how quickly. The higher alcohol by volume the drink contains, the smaller the serving (think of spirits compared to beer). However, it’s important to remember that this doesn’t always translate into how drinks are actually served – for example, if you’re drinking at home in glasses that aren’t the same size as those used in a restaurant or bar.

Standard drinks can help you make sure that your drinking stays within recommended guidelines and doesn’t harm you.

True. Drinking guidelines offer advice on levels and patterns of drinking using ‘standard’ drinks ⁽³⁾. Understanding the concept of a ‘standard’ drink can help you relate your own drinking to recommendations that are consistent with a balanced lifestyle. Drinking in excess of recommended guidelines may increase your risk of harm.