How long does it take to metabolize one glass of red wine?

Under normal circumstances, the metabolism time of a glass of red wine varies from person to person. Most adults take about 1–2 hours for basic metabolism, and 2–4 hours for complete elimination. Detailed analysis is as follows:

A standard glass of red wine contains approximately 14–18 grams of alcohol. The human liver can metabolize 10–15 grams of alcohol per hour. In healthy adults weighing 60–70 kg, blood alcohol concentration typically drops significantly within 1–2 hours after drinking, generally not affecting normal activities. However, to fully eliminate alcohol and avoid any residual traces, it usually takes 2–4 hours. Metabolism rates are influenced by individual differences; women, individuals with lower body weight, or those with weaker liver function may have slower metabolism, potentially extending the required time by 1–2 hours.

Drinking red wine on an empty stomach accelerates alcohol absorption and prolongs metabolism time, which may also irritate the gastric mucosa. Drinking plenty of water after alcohol consumption helps promote the excretion of alcohol through urine, while consuming protein-rich and high-fiber foods can slow down alcohol absorption and support metabolism.

Regular red wine consumption should be moderate to avoid excessive intake that increases the burden on the liver. If driving or operating machinery is required after drinking, it is recommended to wait at least four hours to ensure all alcohol has been completely metabolized.