That's how I grew up - dad would usually make a mild version of his "go to" (whiskey sour) that I could sip, or we could have a small glass of wine with them. Unlike my little sister, I never cared for beer, so I never would take a sip of that. Worked well for me - I never "partied" in HS, in part because I never felt the need to try booze since I already knew how it tasted. Even when I got to college, the first time getting drunk was entirely unintentional (didn't realize the punch was about a 50/50 mix of Everlcear and Hawaiian Punch

). Started getting used to beer not long after - was cheaper than anything else. Still didn't drink that often.
Have yet to try absinthe - just never been some place that's had it I don't had it, or with anyone at a given time that thought to try it. I suspect Spec's might carry it - have a bigger one near me or could probably find a few selections at the "Mother Spec's" near downtown. Something for the list!