EDIT:  I did not mean to make a new thread with this post.  Sorry about that.

Having a drink in ones hand becomes a bit of a social crutch.  Not sure why.  And, it's not neccessarily a bad thing.  If you find that you want to have a drink in your hand at a social gathering but not drink Alcohol for whatever reason, I ussually ask for Cranberry Juice (or "CranApple").  It's better for you than most soda's, tastes good but not soo good you slam it down.  And, if/when people ask what you're drinking just say Cranberry Juice.   Most just say "oh", figure you have some reason not to want to drink and leave it at that.  If they do question me I just say I'm not in the mood to drink, I feel a cold coming on, I have to work in the am or I have to drive tonight.  Whatever is realy the case.  If it is because I don't like the selection being offered, I might even say as much (ie "not a fan of red wine, it gives me killer headaches").

Be honest and poeple will judge you a LOT less than you think.  You might be putting too much emphasis on what they think.  They probably don't give it much of a thought.   You might be thinking more about it than they are.

Personally I like the tatse of many alcohols.  I often get a little peeved if the bartender makes them weak.  And, I have certainly had my share of drinking.  Having said that, I do not hesitate to abstain if I do not want to drink.  And I do not judge others who don't drink no matter what thier reason.  As long as they don't judge me for my choices (as long as I don't act "stupid").

Try not to put emphasis on it and enjoy the social event.