Ohio sees record liquor sales

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- - Ohioans are keeping their liquor cabinets well stocked, as sales of the hard stuff rose to a record $729.9 million in the fiscal year that ended in June.

The Ohio Department of Commerce said Wednesday that the total represents a 4.6 percent increase from the previous year's also-record sales of spirits greater than 21 percent alcohol, or 42 proof.

On a volume basis, Ohioans bought 10.6 million gallons of scotch, vodka and other spirits, 3 percent more than in the 2008 fiscal year.

The volume of hard liquor sold in Ohio has increased at least since 1997, when 8 million gallons were sold. Dollar sales that year were $391.7 million.