I agree with the poster who questions whether the friends you refer to are true friends or just drinking buddies. And I'm also someone who has found lots of wonderful new friends through AA. But I wonder if it might not be possible to go to one or two of your current friends, get them aside and confide about your situation, and try to maintain a friendly relationship with them - just without the drinking. You might be surprised at how some of these people can rise to the occasion and be supportive of your not drinking - and remain your friends. Anyways, just a thought.
Take care,
Stephanie