Is it healthier to drink red or white wine? A nutritional comparison

October 8, 2025 •

3 min read

Red wine, due to its fermentation with grape skins, typically contains significantly more antioxidants like resveratrol than white wine. But is it healthier to drink red or white wine in the grand scheme of a balanced diet?

Quick Summary

Red wine generally contains more antioxidants, like resveratrol and polyphenols, linked to heart and brain health, while white wine is often lower in calories. Health experts, however, emphasize that the key factor for well-being is moderate consumption of any alcohol, as excessive drinking carries significant risks regardless of the wine's color.

Key Points

Red Wine has higher antioxidants: Fermented with grape skins, red wine contains higher levels of antioxidants like resveratrol, which have been linked to heart and brain health.
White Wine contains antioxidants, too: Although lower in resveratrol, white wine contains antioxidants like caffeic acid and tyrosol that may particularly benefit lung health.
Moderation is critical: The potential health benefits of wine are outweighed by the significant health risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption, regardless of the type.
Calorie and sugar differences: White wine is typically slightly lower in calories than red wine. Dry wines of both types contain less sugar than their sweeter counterparts.
Lifestyle matters most: Overall lifestyle choices, including diet, exercise, and abstaining from excessive alcohol, are more impactful for long-term health than the choice between red and white wine.
Not a health recommendation: Health organizations do not recommend starting to drink wine for health benefits. The risks associated with alcohol consumption exist even at moderate levels.

Production Differences and Health Implications

The fundamental difference between red and white wine lies in their production process, which directly impacts their nutritional content. Red wine is fermented with the skins, seeds, and sometimes stems of dark-colored grapes. This extended contact allows for the extraction of potent compounds, like tannins and flavonoids, giving red wine its deep color and higher antioxidant profile. White wine, on the other hand, is made by fermenting grape juice without the skins, resulting in a lighter-bodied, paler wine with a different set of antioxidants.

The Case for Red Wine: Antioxidants and Resveratrol

Red wine's reputation as a "heart-healthy" beverage stems largely from its high concentration of polyphenols, particularly resveratrol. Resveratrol, found in the skin of grapes, is a powerful antioxidant that has been studied for its potential to help prevent damage to blood vessels, reduce 'bad' LDL cholesterol, and decrease the risk of blood clots. Other beneficial compounds, such as procyanidins and quercetin, are also found in red wine and are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. These antioxidants may also have neuroprotective effects, potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline. For example, the Malbec grape, known for its thick skin, produces wines with particularly high antioxidant levels.

The Benefits of White Wine

While white wine has significantly less resveratrol than red, it still contains beneficial antioxidants, including caffeic acid and tyrosol. Some studies suggest that white wine's antioxidants may particularly benefit lung function and protect against lung diseases. White wine also tends to be slightly lower in calories per serving compared to red, making it a preferable choice for those monitoring their caloric intake.

Comparing Nutritional Differences

To better understand the nutritional distinction, here is a comparison based on a standard 5-ounce glass:


Feature	Red Wine (e.g., Merlot)	White Wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc)
Calories	~125–150	~121–148
Antioxidant Content	High (e.g., Resveratrol, Procyanidins)	Lower (e.g., Caffeic Acid, Tyrosol)
Sugar (Dry Wines)	~1 gram	~1–2 grams
Manganese	10% RDI	9% RDI
Iron	4% RDI	2% RDI

Potential Health Benefits Beyond Antioxidants

Beyond the antioxidant content, moderate consumption of any type of alcohol may offer some health benefits by raising 'good' HDL cholesterol, helping to prevent blood clots, and improving blood vessel function. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that these potential benefits must be weighed against the well-documented health risks of alcohol consumption. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, is far more impactful for long-term health than the type of wine consumed.

The Importance of Moderation and Acknowledging Risks

Health experts, including organizations like the American Heart Association and the CDC, emphasize moderation as key when consuming alcohol. For many, this means up to one drink per day for women and up to one to two drinks per day for men. Overconsumption, regardless of the type of wine, is linked to a host of serious health problems, including:

Liver disease
Increased risk of certain cancers (including breast, colon, and liver)
High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
Negative effects on mental health, sleep, and weight management
Alcohol use disorder

Furthermore, recent studies challenge the idea that moderate drinking is without risk, suggesting that even low levels may increase the risk of certain cancers, particularly for women. This perspective highlights the complexity of researching alcohol's health effects and underscores the importance of considering overall lifestyle.

Conclusion: So, Which is Healthier?

For those seeking the highest antioxidant content, particularly resveratrol, red wine has a clear edge over white wine due to its unique fermentation process. However, relying solely on wine for health benefits is not recommended. The amount of resveratrol in a glass of wine is significantly less than what is used in most studies, and other food sources like blueberries and dark chocolate offer similar benefits without the alcohol.

Ultimately, the question of which wine is healthier is less important than the question of moderation. If you enjoy wine, having a glass in moderation, as part of a healthy diet, can be a pleasant experience. However, if you are not a drinker, health experts do not recommend starting for perceived health benefits. For comprehensive health guidance, consult a healthcare professional. For additional information on alcohol's effects, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism is an authoritative source. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

Frequently Asked Questions

Red wine contains high levels of antioxidants like resveratrol, which have been studied for their potential cardiovascular benefits, such as reducing bad cholesterol and preventing blood vessel damage. However, health experts note that the amount in a single glass is often much lower than what's used in studies, and these benefits must be balanced against the risks of alcohol.

Yes, white wine contains antioxidants, including caffeic acid and tyrosol. While the total amount is lower than in red wine, these compounds may offer benefits, particularly for lung health.

White wine typically contains slightly fewer calories per standard 5-ounce glass compared to red wine. However, the calorie difference is minimal and varies by grape variety and sweetness level.

Resveratrol is a plant compound and powerful antioxidant found in the skin of grapes. While present in both red and white wine, red wine contains significantly higher concentrations because it is fermented with the grape skins.

Grape juice contains some of the same health-protective antioxidants as wine, particularly if made from dark red or purple grapes. You can get these benefits without the risks of alcohol, and eating whole grapes provides additional dietary fiber.

Yes. While moderate consumption might offer some benefits, recent studies indicate that alcohol intake can increase the risk of certain health issues, including some cancers, even at low levels. The risks are especially noted for women.

Pinot Noir is often cited as one of the healthiest red wines due to its high resveratrol content and lower sugar levels. Other options include Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, which also contain beneficial antioxidants.