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Feb 17, 2022

TABC Executive Director Honored for Support of Texas Wine Industry

AUSTIN — The Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association honored Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission Executive Director Bentley Nettles on Thursday with the 2022 Frank Madla Award in recognition of his ongoing support of the state’s growing wine industry.

This year's presentation of the Madla Award marks the first time a member of the state’s alcohol regulatory agency has been named for the honor, which recognizes “diligent and altruistic commitment to furthering the Texas Wine and Grape Industry through the Legislature and government agencies.”

Previous honorees include former Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples, Texas Sen. Jane Nelson and Texas Rep. Charlie Geren.

Nettles, who has led TABC since 2017, said his tenure has focused on building relationships with members of the alcoholic beverage industry, which contributes billions of dollars to the Texas economy while making the state a nationally recognized destination for wine tourists.

“There’s no question that the Texas wine industry is a huge economic driver, and my role at TABC is to ensure that trend continues,” Nettles said. “I’m deeply grateful to all of the members of TWGGA for this honor, and I’m proud of everything that’s been accomplished over the years.”

TABC is the state’s sole alcohol regulatory agency and oversees the licenses and permits of more than 58,000 alcohol manufacturers, distributors and retailers statewide. TWGGA represents more than 500 licensed wineries across Texas, who contribute more than $13 billion annually to the Texas economy.

To learn more about TABC, visit tabc.texas.gov. 

TABC Media Contact:

Chris Porter

TABC Public Information Officer

media@tabc.texas.gov