We’ve all been there – one (or three) glasses of red wine too many, and the next morning feels heavier than expected. But is it really true that red wine causes worse hangovers than white? The answer is: yes, it actually can. And it all comes down to something called congeners.
What Are Congeners?
Congeners are natural byproducts formed during the fermentation of alcohol. They include compounds like methanol, acetaldehyde and tannins – and they affect the taste, color, and aroma of the drink. Darker beverages like red wine, whisky and cognac typically contain significantly more congeners than lighter options like white wine, vodka or gin.
Studies have shown that drinks with higher levels of congeners can lead to more severe hangovers. Your body simply has more to process when breaking down both the alcohol and the congeners.
But It’s Not Just About the Color…
Several other factors affect how you feel the next day:
- Sugar content – sweet wines and cocktails can speed up dehydration.
- Bubbles – sparkling wines make your body absorb alcohol more quickly.
- Amount & pace – the faster you drink, the harder it hits.
What’s Easiest on the Body?
If you want to reduce your risk of a rough morning, white wine, dry champagne or clear spirits in moderation are usually better choices than full-bodied red wine or dark liquors.
But most importantly – drink slowly, alternate with water, and listen to your body.
A Wine Memory for the Wall – Not for Your Head
No matter what you’re drinking, don’t forget that every cork tells a story. At Corkframes, we believe your wine memories deserve a proper home. Choose your favorite corks and turn them into a personal piece of wall art with one of our handcrafted Corkframes. Because memories should last longer than the hangover.
