>Some say that it is not the red wine but the alcohol in wine that is good for longevity. But then, if that were true, people in Russia would live forever :)

Could be the proper dosage. Even water can be poisonous, if you drink 50 liters at a time.

A friend of mine had some health issue, went to see a doctor, and the doctor said "look, it's nothing big, and you can keep this condition tamed for years if you have just one shot of brandy in the morning, not more". Few months later, different problem, different doctor recommends a glass of wine after lunch. Third, a beer in the evening. He says he stays as healthy as he can, because he doesn't dare visit a fourth doctor.