Lot's of posts here - I haven't the time right now to read them all.
In regards to the OP; for me that would be a very bad idea. I agree with your wife, that would be putting you one foot back into hell - as you put it, if I remember correctly.
I've even stopped taking a blend of natural native plant essences, designed to calm the mind and stop racing thoughts, because it's made with a base of brandy. And I will be avoiding any and all alcohol tasting foods and beverages.