Socially, I don't see a problem with it. I know it's a depressant, but I firmly believe that only comes to the fore if you're drinking by yourself, which to be honest, I've never done and see no point in doing. However, if you drink (in moderation) when you're out it does increase the fun you have. That might sound irresponsible or reckless, but it does. Obviously some people take it too far, then some people abuse it, which are the people that need help and/or restraint, but in other cases, I'd say from 14+ it should be fine if done responsibly. And the only way to gain that sense of 'responsibility' is to introduce it slowly to a child, not just lock it away and banish it into room 101. We all know what kids are like (some still are, others having been :P) and they'll just see that as another taboo to break. But let's say, if it's a friend or family birthday, one or two glasses of champagne all round will actually do for a child (as in, drunk) and they'll learn what it's like. Follow it up with the affects, as in to inform and not to scare, and there would be no problems. That's pretty much happened to me and I think I have a good balance now. :)