Co-founded by trent and their partner Ren Peir, BABE exists not just to pour good wine but to pour into their community. “We’re trying to create a very specific space that we haven’t seen for us,” says trent. “You’re off from work, you want a little glass of wine, someplace you can sit down where nobody’s sweating on you, but the music is still vibing.”

Both trent and Ren have a background in wine, bringing years of experience to BABE’s curations. But their vision goes beyond the beverage; it’s about shifting the energy around how wine is consumed. “There’s something very intentional about wine,” trent explains. “We’re encouraging thoughtfulness with every part of what we do.”

That thoughtfulness shows up in every detail: from closing off pop-up spaces to maintain safety, to a staff full of BIPOC sommeliers. “Wine can feel intimidating,” says trent. “We want people to experience fine wines without feeling like it’s not for them. So we’re building that ease in.”

The BABE mission, “to create a safe space for queer cuties to enjoy and learn about wine,” feels especially powerful given the barriers they’ve faced. “Investors would ask, ‘Why do you still need this? Queer people can go anywhere,’” trent recalls. “But there’s a difference between knowing you’re welcome somewhere and knowing something was built with you in mind.”

It’s impossible to ignore the link between spaces like BABE and New York City’s deep-rooted history in queer liberation. After all, Stonewall was a bar and a vital haven that became the frontline of queer and trans resistance on June 28, 1969, and the very reason we commemorate Pride each year. “Pride started as a riot outside of a bar,” trent notes. “And honestly, any time queer folks build something for ourselves, it’s revolutionary.”

So, what’s next? BABE is celebrating their one-year anniversary and Pride on June 24. Tickets sold out in 20 seconds (yes, seconds), but check their socials to stay in the loop about what else is coming this summer.