Nominations are now open for the 2025 Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) Ray Herrmann H.E.R.O. Award, sponsored by Breakthru Beverage Group (BBG).
Herrmann, who passed away in 2021, is credited with one of the most accomplished, respected and distinguished careers in the wine and spirits industry, WSWA states. He was not only a beverage alcohol industry titan, but also a man of great character, ethics and philanthropy.
WSWA and BBG created the H.E.R.O. Award to promote his venerable traits and inspire others to reach higher, do better and leave the wine and spirits industry and our world in a better place for those who follow. The award is administered by WSWA and will be sponsored by BBG annually for a decade, from 2023 through 2033, according to WSWA. To nominate a colleague, visit https://accesslive.wswa.org/awards.
The Ray Herrmann H.E.R.O. Award
The H.E.R.O. Award will be given to one individual with $20,000 to donate to a charity of their choice, WSWA states. Banfi Chairman Emeritus Dr. John Mariani was unanimously selected as the inaugural recipient in 2023 in recognition of his philanthropy and impact on the industry. In 2024, Bert “Tito” Beveridge, founder of Tito’s Handmade Vodka, was the recipient for his dedication to the industry and for building his brand around an ethos of humanity and respect.
The nominated recipient of the award must be a member of the wine and spirits industry from one of the three tiers: supplier, distributor or retailer, according to WSWA. The recipient must actively display a character dedicated to philanthropy, helping others, improving community, etc. They must also live a life focused on ethics, integrity, honesty, inclusiveness and humanity. An appointed executive selection committee will select the recipient. The award will then be presented at WSWA’s Access LIVE taking place February 3 – 6, 2025 in Denver, CO.
