Danica Patrick, well-known former NASCAR driver, has reignited discussion around alcohol consumption by openly supporting a pro-alcohol perspective and directly connecting it to her own business success, fueling the ongoing Danica Patrick pro-alcohol winery narrative. Her comments, shared in a recent Instagram story, have drawn criticism and sparked debate within the world of sports and beyond.
Patrick’s remarks come amid increased scrutiny of alcohol use, explaining her personal belief that alcohol can help people connect and enjoy themselves socially—a belief she says motivated her to open Somnium Wine in Napa Valley and to create Danica Rose in France.
Danica Patrick’s Views on Alcohol and Socialization
Recently, Danica Patrick, who continues to polarize audiences long after her retirement from racing, brought her controversial opinions back into the spotlight through an Instagram story. The post featured a segment from the ‘I’ve Had It Podcast,’ where guest Tyler Ingolia argued that anti-alcohol attitudes had damaged young people’s ability to maintain social ties. The hosts agreed, emphasizing the social aspect of moderate drinking.
In her story, Patrick stated that while moderation is important, she believes alcohol plays a positive role in social life, letting people relax, be more outgoing, and form bonds with others. Emphasizing her position as a winery owner, she described her mission as fostering community and connection through wine. Patrick’s Napa Valley establishment, Somnium Wine, and her French-produced Danica Rose, reflect this outlook.
“Hahaha. I don’t condone over doing anything but alcohol can be a facilitator for community, socialization, and having fun. It’s literally why I have a winery. To be a mechanism to connect with the people around you.”
—Danica Patrick wrote on Instagram.
Her message underscores her belief that wine, enjoyed responsibly, enhances social dynamics, giving people more opportunities to interact and build lasting relationships. However, her stance has prompted concerns among some observers who warn that public figures endorsing alcohol could overshadow awareness of its health risks. While Patrick makes a case for wine as a social facilitator, critics remind audiences that alcohol use can lead to serious health consequences if not approached responsibly.
Resurfacing of Patrick’s Relationship with Aaron Rodgers
In recent public appearances and interviews, Danica Patrick has also revisited her very public relationship, and painful breakup, with NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Their split in 2020 attracted considerable attention, as the duo was seen as one of sports’ most notable couples. In the aftermath, Patrick has openly discussed the emotional difficulties she faced.
She described the relationship as deeply damaging to her emotional well-being, stating that its abrupt end and emotionally abusive nature led her to question her self-worth and left lasting emotional scars.
“Because it was sudden, it felt like. It was my life. So like when you live with somebody, it’s your whole life. And because the nature of the relationship was emotionally abusive, so that wore me down to nothing. People could never imagine that I would lack … any confidence or belief in the simple things about who I am. Everything was torn to bits. Yeah, he leaves a trail of blood. I don’t think I’m saying too much earth-shattering stuff after we — there’s been enough out there.”
—Danica Patrick said on The Sage Steele Show.
Patrick credits that difficult breakup with eventually leading to significant personal growth and a rediscovery of her own identity, saying the crisis forced her to rebuild her sense of self without relying on anyone else.
“It gave me the greatest gift, which was myself.”
—Danica Patrick added.
The Broader Context Around Patrick’s Statements
Danica Patrick’s openness about both her personal and business journeys has kept her in the public eye since her retirement from NASCAR. Her forthright comments about alcohol’s social role, as well as her willingness to address sensitive personal issues, have ensured that she remains a topic of conversation among fans and in media circles. The Danica Patrick pro-alcohol winery narrative adds to the ongoing discussion about the influence of celebrities on public behavior, especially regarding health and lifestyle choices.
Patrick’s story highlights the ways in which public figures can both inspire and provoke debate, as she discusses her motivation for launching Somnium Wine and her belief in wine as a tool for connection. Nonetheless, her advocacy of responsible drinking illustrates ongoing tensions between promoting social activities and acknowledging health considerations.
Looking ahead, it remains to be seen how Patrick’s statements will influence broader attitudes toward alcohol and celebrity endorsements, as well as how her business ventures in the Napa Valley and France will develop. Her journey also serves as a case study on resilience and reinvention, both in personal relationships and business, as she continues to shape her post-racing legacy.
