ABC stores see record profit

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Virginians bought more alcohol in the state's beverage control stores and restaurants as the state agency again saw a record profit in the last fiscal year.

The Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control's most recent annual report says it has seen retail sales increase to record-breaking levels consecutively for the past 14 years, even as discussions continue about privatizing the state's liquor stores. The agency that runs more than 330 shops saw a profit of $132.1 million in the fiscal year that ended June 30.

Gross wholesale and retail sales increased nearly 6 percent to $734 million. That translates to more than 10 million gallons of wine, spirits and nonalcoholic mixers.

Nearly 1.4 million cases of vodka were sold. But Jack Daniel's remained the top-selling brand based on dollar figures.