What age is the proper age to drink alcohol?

So I'm a freshman and since it's summer I'm sure there will be a lot of parties. And me, being somewhat known I will probably be invited to quite a few. I'm sure there will be alcohol, as well as dirty dancing, and possibly weed. I, personally, would never smoke. But I've drank a little before (Smirnoff/rum to be exact) and it tastes pretty good. I have also has some of my parents' wine. What I want to know is, what age would be really appropriate to drink? If I ever did start drinking a lot at parties it will most definitely not be to the point in which I feel like throwing up. Maybe just a few small cups of it- depending on the beverage. Do you think I should wait until I'm a bit older, or just start a bit now?