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    The Wine Leaders' Board: Wine Lovers Choose the Best of 2012

    By | Shine Food – Fri, Jun 29, 2012 3:48 PM EDT

    A glass of red wine is seen on a table.A glass of red wine is seen on a table.Wine lovers are tired of getting told what to drink. But now they're getting the chance to decide what's best!

    This week, Snooth launched the People's Voice Wine Awards, inviting all wine drinkers, from the connoisseurs to the novices, to choose the best wines of the year. Since then, voters from around the world have already come to voice their opinion. The first round of voting runs through August so get your votes in now!

    Nominees include wines from all over the world and across many different categories -- and price points -- of wine. Even the more budget-friendly (or "value") wines are represented and getting quite a bit of attention.

    We wanted to highlight those wines that are currently leading in the more popular categories. So let's check out the leader board:

    Leading Value Rosé: Isabel Mondavi Deep Rosé
    Made with Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, this Sonoma County rosé tastes of dark fruit and many drinkers find it enjoyable. It's a great complement to a beautiful summer day and at a great price as well. Serve this with a bit of spice, like this Grilled Chicken on Greens with Creamy Harissa Dressing.

    Leading Premium Dessert White: Pacific Rim Winemakers Sweet Riesling
    An Oregonian winery, Pacific Rim delivers just what they promise: a sweet riesling wine. The sweet is not overpowering but there's just enough fruitiness to make this a good replacement for dessert. Or have it with dessert, alongside a Kabocha Squash Cake.

    Leading Value Cabernet Sauvignon: Root 1 Cabernet Sauvignon
    Hailing from Chile, Root 1 is located in a region renowned for their outstanding red wines. Their Cabernet Sauvignon is no exception. The wine features red fruit flavors and a touch of vanilla. Pair it with a spicy pork dish, perhaps the Sticky Pork Ribs.

    Leading Value Chardonnay: St. Francis Sonoma Chardonnay
    The Chardonnay grape is one of the most dominant wine varietals around the world. St. Francis delivers a very Californian interpretation of the grape: dry and brisk with complements of pear. Believe it or not, it's a great partner for Popcorn with Brown Butter and Parmesan.

    Leading Value Sparkling Wine: Mionetto Prosecco Brut
    Nothing like a great sparkler to celebrate -- anything! Mionetto, an Italian winery, creates this Prosecco which combines a golden apple flavors with a dry, fresh wine and, of course, bubbles. Pair this sparkling wine with a tasty Brioche á Tête.

    For more wine news and reviews, visit Snooth.com. And don't forget to vote for your favorite wines in the 2012 People's Voice Wine Awards.

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