it has to do with the speed of alcohol consumption. although beer has less alcoholic content than wine per fluid ounce, it is served in larger portions and consumed more quickly and in greater volume. when served ice cold in hot weather, it is drank at a greater rate. wine is sipped slowly, and it's usually served to accompany or pair with a meal in subdued ambience, elaborate setting and over longer quieter conversations with important or more serious person(s). beer is a less formal drink, while wine, even though it's drank informally, requires the drinker to decant and go slow on it to appreciate its taste, essence and value.... as it's typically more expensive and exquisite. the epitome of alcoholic beverages is very aged hard liquor - brandy, whiskey, port. these are to be enjoyed or consumed at a much slower rate and lower volume than wine. unfortunately, sinkies drink these, especially extremely expensive and extra-ordinarily aged cognacs and whiskeys, like drinking beer.