As with most things in life, moderation is the key. For those who can't moderate alcohol, abstinence is the best way to go. Many of my friends don't drink.
I don't drink often because of blood sugar issues. I like upscale wine, but have to limit it to once every 3 months or less, and I can only enjoy it with a meal. Being the party animal that I was, I drank quite a bit in my 20s and 30s. As I got into my 40s, my stomach would start burning if I drank without eating. It was nature's way of telling me to have water instead.