flipflop Wines Named "Best New Product -Wine" at Market Watch 2012 Leaders Annual Gala

LIVERMORE, Calif., Sept. 14, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The beverage alcohol industry's top retailer, wholesaler and supplier executives gathered at the St. Regis Hotel in New York City last night for Market Watch magazine's annual Leaders Awards Dinner, which honors the nation's foremost spirits, wine and beer personalities. flipflop was named Leader's Choice "Best New Product -Wine", an award bestowed by industry leaders to the top brand performers. Rolled out last January, flipflop has sold an estimated 600,000 cases in its first year on the market, according to Impact Databank.

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"Being recognized for an award of this magnitude is extremely gratifying for the brand," said Jeff Dubiel, Chief Marketing Officer of The Wine Group. "It is a testament to our team, as well as our consumers who have embraced the movement toward individualistic expression. Our goal has always been to craft expressive, well-balanced wines that are outstanding values and can truly be enjoyed at any occasion."

flipflop was introduced in 2011 with Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Moscato, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Noir and Riesling offerings at a $7.99 SRP.  In January, flipflop added six new varietals including Malbec, Sauvignon Blanc, Sweet Red, as well as Bubbly Chardonnay, Bubbly Moscato and Bubbly Pinot Grigio at a $9.99 SRP. The brand also launched several of its top selling varietals in the 1.5 liter size, including Moscato, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot at a $10.99 SRP.

Since flipflop wines' launch, the brand has quickly become one of the fastest growing wine brands on the market. Wine experts and casual drinkers appreciate the well-balanced flavors and unique characteristics of the wine. flipflop is notable for its groundbreaking partnership with Soles4Souls, the international shoe charity. In addition to its own contributions from the proceeds of wine sales, flipflop has spread awareness of this important charity through programs like "flipflop Week" and the "Give the Gift of Giving" Sweepstakes.

About The Wine Group:
The Wine Group is a California-based producer of such well-known brands as Franzia, Cupcake Vineyards & Cupcake Vodka, Concannon Vineyards, Big House, Almaden, Fish Eye and flipflop.  Founded in 1981, The Wine Group is the world's third largest wine producer by volume and the world's most cost- and carbon-efficient vintner.

SOURCE The Wine Group