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February 18th is National Drink Wine Day! I like to use this date as an excuse to get together with my girlfriends and enjoy a glass (or two) of wine. Have you considered the benefits of drinking wine? Of course, everything in moderation, but there are quite a few good reasons to enjoy a glass of wine.

Heart Health

People have long considered the health benefits of drinking wine, red wine in particular. The medical world is cautious about making a definitive statement on the health benefits of wine but they will tell you that wine has ingredients that can be beneficial. Antioxidants and resveratrol may have cardiovascular benefits. In fact, maybe I’ll be extra healthy and have some dark chocolate with my red wine!

Of course, a glass of wine is no replacement for staying healthy, but there’s something to be said for considering how a glass a day may keep the doctor away!

Social Benefits

One of my favorite parts about drinking wine is that it brings my friends and me together to share a laugh and a meal with each other. How does this relate to the benefits of drinking wine? Spending quality time with friends is a great way to keep us healthy, both physically and mentally. So, call up a couple of friends and enjoy some wine together. Share a few laughs, a little bit of food, and each other’s good company!

Travel Experiences

Wine tasting is a fun way to experience all of the different tastes and types of wine. If you’re lucky enough to live in an area known for its wine, then plan a day trip to go and enjoy what your local wineries have to offer. Considering a vacation? Maybe plan a trip to wine country, right here at home or an extra fancy trip abroad. Not only is it a fun way to learn more about wine but typically wine country is a visually stunning backdrop for your sipping experience.

And there you have it: three good reasons to pour a glass of wine on National Drink Wine Day. On February 18th, grab a bottle of your favorite wine and share it with good friends while you plan your vacation to wine country! Even if you don’t make it on that trip, at least you’ll have done something good for your heart and your mind.