Canguy,
Yes most people can and do drink moderately. You are't going to find a lot of those folk here. Give moderation a try. It might work for you. Me, I find it too much of a hasstle. It is easier for me to be a non-drinker.
I don't like the way alcohol affects my life so I banished it. And my life is so much better. But to a point of your question: I think that moderate drinking is certainly better than binge drinking. I think Harm Reduction strategies are helpful to many. Better is better.
I made the decision to remove alcohol from my life a ways back and I've never regretted it (well perhaps for the odd thought here or there). Many previous times I drank and regretted that decision. I hope you find what works for you.