In the world of spirits, some names just keep coming back stronger, and Virginia's latest sales numbers prove it. For the eighth year running, Tito's Handmade Vodka has claimed the top spot in sales at Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority stores during fiscal year 2025. Shoppers across the state shelled out a whopping $75 million on various sizes of this popular vodka, showing it's still a go-to choice for many.
Right behind it, Hennessy VS Cognac pulled in $32.2 million, holding strong in second place. Whiskey fans had plenty to cheer about too, with Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey racking up $27.4 million in third. Jim Beam Bourbon wasn't far off at $22 million, and Patrón Silver tequila rounded out the top five with $20.3 million. The list keeps going with Jameson Irish Whiskey at $20 million, Maker's Mark Bourbon at $19 million, Lunazul Blanco Tequila at $18 million, Grey Goose Vodka at $17.6 million, and Woodford Reserve Bourbon closing the top 10 at $17.3 million.
What's interesting is how tequila is making big moves. Six of the fastest-growing brands in the top 10 were tequilas, signaling a shift toward bolder flavors. Don Julio Tequila Reposado led the charge in growth, jumping $10 million from the previous year. Teremana Tequila Reposado came in hot too, going from $9.2 million to $14 million. On the whiskey side, Crown Royal Blackberry Flavored Whisky caught on quick with Canadian whisky lovers, adding $4.4 million in sales.
Not everything was up, though. Some big names took hits. Hennessy VS Cognac saw the biggest drop, down $6 million overall. Patrón Silver Tequila followed with a $5.4 million decline. Even Tito's, despite staying on top, dipped a bit by $236,017, mainly from slower sales in most bottle sizes.
Breaking it down by categories, vodka still rules the roost with 1.6 million cases sold, no surprise given Tito's dominance. Tequila held second at 1.1 million cases, showing steady growth. Straight bourbon whiskey came in third with 800,181 cases, a solid showing for those who prefer the rich, oaky profiles of American classics. Cordials moved 526,040 cases, and rum wasn't too far behind at 406,326 cases. One category that's been picking up steam is ready-to-drink cocktails, which grew by 9.5% in volume – perfect for guys who want something quick and easy without mixing at home.
Beyond the usual suspects, new products are shaking things up and getting attention from shoppers. Spirits-based Buzzballz ready-to-drink cocktails in different flavors brought in $2.4 million, appealing to those looking for fun, portable options. Virginia was one of the first markets for Fireball Blazin’ Apple Whisky, and it paid off with $1.2 million in sales – a spicy twist on a familiar favorite that might just become a staple for tailgates or backyard hangs.
For the serious collectors and enthusiasts, allocated products are where the real excitement lies. Virginia ABC has been working closely with distillers and suppliers to boost supplies of hard-to-find whiskeys and bourbons, leading to higher sales overall. Buffalo Trace Bourbon, now stocked on shelves in every store thanks to those partnerships, saw a $1.4 million increase. A fresh entry, Woodford Reserve Double Double Oaked Bourbon, hit over $500,000 in sales, drawing in folks who appreciate that extra layer of aging and complexity.
The way they handle these rare finds is smart too – randomized in-store events for allocated spirits keep things fair. For the ultra-rare stuff like Van Winkle branded whiskeys, they run online lotteries, giving everyone a shot without the chaos of lines or scalpers.
Pride in local products runs deep here, and Virginia ABC stocks nearly 400 spirits distilled right in the state. Leading the pack is Bowman Brothers Virginia Straight Bourbon at $2.4 million, a smooth, reliable choice with that hometown feel. John J. Bowman Virginia Straight Bourbon followed at $1.8 million, while Cirrus Vodka brought in $1.7 million for those preferring something cleaner. Isaac Bowman Port Finish Whiskey tallied $787,546, offering a unique twist with its port barrel aging that adds subtle fruit notes. Waterman Spirits Perfect Crush came in at $606,377, rounding out the top five.
The rest of the top 10 Virginia spirits include Tarnished Truth High Rye Bourbon, known for its bold spice; Copper Fox Original Rye Whisky, with its distinctive smoke from apple and cherry wood; Beach Vodka, light and beach-inspired; and Ragged Branch Signature Bourbon, a craft option that's gaining fans for its small-batch quality. These local gems show how Virginia's distillers are holding their own against the big national brands, and they're worth seeking out for anyone building a home bar with a regional touch.
As the year wraps up, Virginia ABC is making it easier to stock up for celebrations. On New Year’s Eve, December 31, all stores will stay open until 8 p.m., giving folks two extra hours compared to past years to grab what they need. Then on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2026, stores will open from noon to 6 p.m., so no one's left high and dry after the festivities.
These sales figures paint a picture of what's hot in Virginia's liquor scene – from enduring favorites like Tito's and Jack Daniel's to rising stars in tequila and local bourbons. Whether you're a whiskey connoisseur hunting rare bottles or just picking up something reliable for the weekend, the trends highlight a mix of tradition and innovation that's keeping things interesting for spirit lovers across the state.
