sure they're both around 12%, right? but wine isn't also a stimulant. that's why 4 loko is way more potent than wine or arguably even harder liquor. 7th grade health class should have taught you that a stimulant mixed with a depressant (in this case half energy drink, half alcohol) is going to make you feel the effects way more. not to mention the fact that it's way more unhealthy.
in seattle, these are banned from being sold around the central district area, so if and when people buy them, they have to drive north of the montlake cut where they're sold.