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The GEM Hotel Chelsea

It was only a matter of time before Brooklyn, the DIY capital of the country right now, got its own winery. You would never guess that behind the Brooklyn Winery’s dimly lit, spacious wine bar is a massive wine making operation complete with barrels stacked high in the back room. While their community wine-making packages aren’t particularly budget-friendly, it doesn’t take much time, effort or money to enjoy the many varietals they offer at the new .

This place is large enough that it’s hard to ever feel “packed.” With a spacious tasting room in front and numerous nooks and crannies in the back, it’s perfect for hosting a party or grabbing a quiet drink with a friend. Plus the back room features a brewery-style display window where you can see all those barrels fermenting their way to perfection.

Choose from a mix of , featuring everything from your typical reds to champagne and dessert wines. And the best part is, the prices range from — dare I say cheap — to very high-end. I had a full pour of the Monastrell wine, a red from the Catalonia region of Spain and known for its earthy flavor, but more importantly, its high alcohol content. At $3.50 for a half pour and $7 for a full pour (and trust me, those glasses are BIG), you’ll be feeling just fine after a glass or two. For the non vino-lovers, they also offer a selection of local bottled beers. I recommend Brooklyn Brewery’s Dark Chocolate Stout, so you can sip along with your neighboring wine drinkers.

After all that classy boozing, you’re gonna get hungry. Luckily they also offer food from nearby local favorite, . Since this is not a beer bar, don’t expect your typical bar food. The group I was with split the Trio of Flavored Butters — which sounds fucking ridiculous when you say it out loud, but you won’t be laughing once you’re going in for your fourth helping. Served with toast and prosciutto, the plate features a mix of honey, basil, white anchovy and garlic flavored spreads. To finish off your night, try “Brian’s Brownie” with chocolate ganache. Nobody can say no to ganache. While the surroundings and menu all feel very luxe, the menu and prices speak otherwise. So you can feel like youre spoiling yourself but still like the feel of money in your pocket after you leave.

Brooklyn Winery, 213 N 8th St. between Roebling & Driggs Ave, Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

Visitors to New York should check out these budget-friendly hotels: Union Square Inn, New York and the Gem Hotel – Chelsea, New York. To visit the winery, catch the L train from Manhattan and get off at the Bedford stop.

— Laura S. from Broke-Ass Stuart’s Goddamn Website

[Photo credit: Flickr/Davide Restivo]