Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority

The Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority (Virginia ABC) is an independent political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Virginia, established to regulate and control the distribution of alcoholic beverages within the state. Operating under the Secretariat of Public Safety and Homeland Security, Virginia ABC plays a pivotal role in ensuring public safety, promoting responsible alcohol consumption, and generating revenue for various state programs.

History and Structure

Founded in 1934, Virginia ABC was created in response to the repeal of Prohibition, with the mission to oversee the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages in Virginia. In 2018, the agency transitioned from a traditional state government agency to an independent authority, enhancing its flexibility and efficiency as a retailer, wholesaler, and regulator of distilled spirits.

Retail Operations

Virginia ABC operates a network of retail stores across the Commonwealth, offering a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, including distilled spirits, mixers, and Virginia-made wines. As of June 2025, the agency manages 401 stores, with 93% of Virginians living within 10 minutes of a retail location. These stores serve as the exclusive outlets for purchasing distilled spirits in Virginia, ensuring a controlled and regulated environment for alcohol sales.

Regulatory and Enforcement Roles

Beyond retail operations, Virginia ABC is responsible for enforcing state laws related to alcoholic beverages. The Bureau of Law Enforcement, comprising over 100 special agents, conducts underage compliance checks, inspects license applicants, enforces ABC laws in licensed establishments, and investigates alcohol-related criminal activities.

This bureau also manages licensing, compliance, and administrative services, ensuring all entities involved in the sale and distribution of alcohol adhere to state regulations.

Alcohol Education and Prevention

Virginia ABC is committed to promoting responsible alcohol consumption through various education and prevention programs. These initiatives target individuals, families, licensees, and communities, offering training and resources to prevent underage drinking, impaired driving, and other alcohol-related issues.

The agency provides grants to support community coalitions and programs at Virginia colleges and universities, fostering a culture of responsible alcohol use throughout the state.

Recent Developments

In August 2024, Virginia ABC implemented a significant change in its approach to distributing rare spirits. The agency ceased its previous notification system and adopted a randomized, notification-free in-store stocking method.

This strategy aims to create a fairer distribution process and discourage practices such as camping outside liquor stores to obtain high-demand bottles. While most rare liquors are now stocked randomly, exceptionally rare items, like Pappy Van Winkle, continue to be available through a lottery system.

Leadership

In April 2024, Governor Glenn Youngkin appointed Dale Farino as the new Chief Executive Officer of Virginia ABC, effective April 29, 2024. Mr. Farino brings extensive experience from his tenure in the beverage industry, including roles at Breakthru Beverage Virginia and Tidewater Wholesalers.

His leadership is expected to drive innovation and enhance the agency's operations in line with its mission to serve the citizens of Virginia.

Location

• Richmond, VA, USA – The headquarters and primary location for Virginia ABC’s operations.

Conclusion

The Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority remains a cornerstone in Virginia's efforts to regulate and control the distribution of alcoholic beverages. Through its comprehensive approach encompassing retail operations, regulatory enforcement, education, and recent strategic initiatives, Virginia ABC continues to uphold its commitment to public safety, responsible consumption, and contributing to the state's economic growth.