Alcohol has long been connected to negative consequences for your health. It can cause weight gain, damage to liver and other organs, and limited cognitive functioning.

With all this in mind, it's no surprise why some people may completely avoid drinking alcohol. However, there may be some alcohol you can enjoy while reaping some health benefits. Red wine is one of the most infamous for containing antioxidants that are beneficial for heart health.

But if you're more of a bubbly lover, your heart might just love having some champagne.

Champagne and Heart Health

It turns out that champagne isn’t just for celebrations, it might also give your heart something to toast to. Like red wine, champagne contains polyphenols, a type of antioxidant found in the grapes used to make it. Polyphenols are known to support healthy blood vessels, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation, all of which are essential for keeping your heart strong.

But what really stands out is the potential link between drinking a moderate amount of champagne and a lower risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Some research suggests that the antioxidant effects of champagne may help protect the heart’s electrical system, which plays an important role in preventing dangerous arrhythmias and cardiac events. (1)

Of course, moderation is key. But in small doses, champagne may do more than lift your spirits. It might also help support your heart.

And it's Not Just Champagne

While red wine is often in the conversation of supporting heart health, white wine may also deserve a little more credit when it comes to sudden cardiac events.

Recent studies have shown that drinking a moderate amount of white wine may be linked to a reduced risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Researchers believe that the flavonoids and antioxidants found in white wine could help reduce inflammation, improve vascular function, and support your heart’s rhythm. (1)

Although white wine contains fewer polyphenols than a glass of red or even champagne, it still offers potential protective effects, particularly when paired with a heart-healthy lifestyle. And just like with champagne, the key is moderation. Too much alcohol of any kind can quickly outweigh the benefits.

The Bottom Line on Bubbles and Wine

When it comes to alcohol and heart health, the conversation is often focused on the risks—and for good reason. But as research evolves, it’s becoming clear that certain types of wine, like champagne and white wine, may offer some surprising heart benefits when enjoyed in moderation.

From supporting healthy blood vessels to lowering the risk of sudden cardiac arrest, a little bubbly or a glass of white could be more than just a treat. It might be a small step toward supporting your cardiovascular health.

That said, wine isn’t a magic solution, and it’s certainly not a replacement for heart-healthy habits like exercise, a healthy diet, and regular checkups. But if you already enjoy the occasional glass, your heart might just have another reason to raise a toast.

Sources:

(1) "Modifiable Risk Factors and Attributable Burden of Cardiac Arrest: An Exposome-wide and Mendelian Randomization Analysis." Canadian Journal of Cardiology, vol. 41, no. 5, 2025, S0828-282X(25)00171-0. https://onlinecjc.ca/article/S0828-282X(25)00171-0/fulltext.