You think beer is the only thing brewing in Brooklyn? Try some of Vincenzo Lombardo’s homemade wine at his home in Bensonhurst and you might think you’re in California.

This former construction worker, who is on disability due to a work-related accident, has been making his own wine since 1988 when he moved to his current home. He was taught how to make wine by his father, who still makes his own wine in their hometown of Calabria, Italy.

While Vinny is an avid wine lover, he is particular to his own blend.

I very rarely drink wine that’s not my own because I don’t really like it. I don’t know what it’s made of.”

There are three types of red grapes he uses: Thompson seedless, Alicante, and Zinfandel. This mix eventually ferments into rosé wine. He never makes white wine.

Vinny produces his wine in the month of September, when his wine grapes are in season. But don’t worry, he makes enough to last a year – 70 gallons!

Does he think this tradition will carry with his two sons?

“I hope so, but my kids don’t like the wine I make.”