Regardless of anyone's opinion, the bottom line is that our genes expect at
least a small amount of alcohol in the diet. If this were not so then we
would not be carrying genetic instructions specific to its metabolism.

Yes, and don't forget there are naturally occuring (non fermented food)
sources of the alcohol sugars mannitol, xylitol and sorbitol. All these
sugars are found in fruits and vegatables. Of course our bodies are equiped
to digest and metabolize these alcohol sugars.
http://www.gnc.com/health_notes/Food_Guide/Sugar_Alcohols.htm