Put a cork in wine labelling shock tactics Combining good wine with good friends is a valued part of our culture. Picture: Gibson Nic THE wine industry in South Australia is a vital part of our culture and economy. Recently some in the public health lobby called for the shock tactic labelling that is on cigarette packaging to be placed on wine bottle labels. Tobacco and wine are fundamentally different products. The facts are that one in two smokers will die from a smoking-related disease and every cigarette is harmful. The same cannot be said of wine. Research shows that wine, particularly red wine, consumed in moderation can be beneficial to our health. As a board member of Cancer Council SA, I am aware of the damage caused by the irresponsible consumption of alcohol, whether it is road fatalities caused by drink driving, alcohol-fuelled violence, or physiological and psychological damage caused by inappropriate or excessive drinking. However, the combination of good food, good wine and good friends is a fundamental part of our society. The wine industry has also shown responsibility and has often sensibly self-regulated before the need for outside interference. A good example of this is that it has already voluntarily introduced labelling that warns against drinking while pregnant and sends the message about drinking responsibly. This was in response to specific research that showed that women aged 25 to 35 consumed wine more than any other alcoholic beverages. Recently there has been good news with some smaller local wineries such as Gemtree Wines securing investment from China, together with a channel to market into China. It is this overseas investment and access to the Chinese market that will help restore the health of our wine industry. And with it comes not only recognition of our wine but also of our state. The wine industry in South Australia is a vital part of both our culture and our economy, creating investment and jobs, so let's support it and encourage its responsible self-regulation around health issues.