"If you weren't born on or before this date then you are not allowed to consume alcohol"

In reviewing a recent article about lowering the drinking age. , I was able to analyze the pros and cons.  Before reading this article, I found nothing wrong with the national drinking age being set at 21. However, I now feel that the age should be lowered, but with strict regulations.

In the US, when a person turns 18, they are considered an adult. They are required to sign up for the draft, and also are eligible to vote. Many question, why they are unable to drink alcohol? Why must they wait until 21, when they are a considered an adult at the age of 18, and in fact are able to make adult decisions. In many other European countries, the legal age to drink is between 16-18. I personally believe the drinking age should be lowered, but with some restrictions. 

For instance, in Austria, the drinking age is 16 for beer; however,  18 for wine. As an alternative, I believe that when a person turns 18,  they should be able to consume alcohol in the company of an adult. This regulatory system, would be similar to how 16 year olds get their permit, which comes with limitations for at least nine months. Once the drinker reaches 21, they would then be allowed to drink without limitations. I feel that this will lead to underage drinking. However, because many 18 year olds are seen as irresponsible, the question and concern of drinking while driving is obviously at the forefront, which is why an adult would have to present during the early stages of experimenting with the substance.  I feel that this is a far better approach than setting someone free at the age of 21 the opportunity to explore drinking.