We’ve all been clinging to the antioxidant-boosting promises of red wine (and dark chocolate, for that matter) for years, but it’s time we delved deeper into the delicious world of the beloved tipple: are red wines as good for us as we’d like to hope they are?

What are the benefits of drinking red wine?

The Australian Medical Association has reported on research that suggests maintaining an active lifestyle while still enjoying an alcoholic beverage, like red wine, could reduce the risks of dementia. Additionally, for those hoping to cut down on their sugar intake, dry red wines are lower in sugar than most other wines. Currently, research is also being conducted to find out more about the connections between red wines’ ingredients and their potential abilities to cut the risk of cardiovascular disease in its drinkers. Fingers crossed on this one, red wine lovers.

Is red wine good for you?

The health benefits of red wine have been touted for a long time now, and, for years, much of the research has suggested responsible consumption could lower the risk of heart disease and Alzheimer’s.

And yet, research from Harvard University has suggested otherwise. Researchers at Harvard, in a study published in the British Medical Journal, explored how standard drinking could be doing us more damage than good. Over a 30-year period – conducting research involving 130,000 participants – Harvard researchers found those who drank more had a higher risk of alcohol-caused diseases (the bad kinds). And women were at higher risk than men.

For some, red wine brings the promise of contentment and relaxation (especially when served with a big bowl of pasta). And, though the jury may be out on how good red wine is for our health, we’re willing to enjoy a sip of the multi-faceted drop (in moderation, naturally) while we await further results (preferably on a balcony in Italy overlooking the sea).