Question:
Is it customary to have wine at a mourner’s seudat havra’ah , and if yes, why.
Answer:
Hello,
According to most poskim, there is no custom or specific obligation to drink wine. Rather, if one wants to drink, it is permitted, specifically during the meal after eating, but not before or after the meal. There is a gemora that wine was created for the downtrodden, and there was once a custom to drink wine for this reason. However, since this caused people to get intoxicated, the custom was abolished, and if one wants to drink a small amount during the meal, it is permitted.
Best wishes
Sources:
eruvin 65a, Aruch Hashulchan Y:D 378-10,
