Hi Rabbi Simon,
Is it kosher to drink alcohol?
Many thanks,
Winston
Hi Winston
Thank you for your question.
Drinking alcohol per se is “kosher”, in the sense that it is not forbidden to do so, and indeed many Jewish rituals involve (moderate) wine consumption. Moreover, wine (and to a lesser extent other alcoholic beverages) is discussed extensively in rabbinic literature, ancient and modern, as a common feature of Jewish life.
Even social or “recreational” drinking is not forbidden, per se. In moderation, alcoholic drinks have a legitimate place at the Sabbath table and other celebratory occasions.
However, the question of the propriety of alcohol consumption depends on a range of important considerations, such as when, by whom, why, how much, for what purpose, what consequences may ensue, etc.
Finally, note that there are kosher laws which govern wine (in particular), which is why traditionally observant Jews only drink wine which is designated as “kosher” due to careful supervision in its production. The good news is that a wide range of kosher wine is available for every palate.
I hope this is helpful. לחיים!
Sincerely
Rabbi Rashi Simon