I developed a dependency on alcohol in my late 50’s, having been a “normal” (whatever that means) drinker for my adult life.
I chose sobriety (thank you, FreeOwl) at 62.
Like you, I felt that my drinking was my destiny, having had a ton of alcohol addiction on both sides of my family.
Wrong. I just told myself that so I could keep drinking.
My way became clear when I finally accepted in my heart and mind that drinking was not the way to go for me.
Good luck.