Yeah I've quit drinking a lot in the past 3 years for months at a time. I enjoy my sober runs. I can honestly say now that I'd be happy never having alcohol again, which I think is why I find it much easier to control now.
If you don't eliminate the root cause for the drinking than moderation is difficult. The root cause is implanted in your subconscious mind so you're probably not aware of it.
Nice, yeah. I've done a lot of shadow work in the past few years so I know a lot of tangible reasons that cause me to go into excess. As you mentioned, there is always a deeper and deeper root to uncover in the subconscious. It ends up being all or nothing for me because one of the main reasons I've always liked substances is for psychic escapism. I think I could control it and drink just a little, but I don't like the feeling of slight intoxication lol. I suppose I am a bit of an extremist by nature always seeking towards greater balance.
I know exactly what you're going through. I used to drink to escape reality also. When u like the reality you're in then there's no reason to escape it. It's so much more enjoyable when it's not needed.