ABC Fine Wine & Spirits Expands Nationally with Applejack Acquisition

Florida-based retailer makes first move out of state in 90-year history, acquiring iconic Colorado wine and spirits chain.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 4:23pm

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ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, a leading family-owned alcohol retailer in Florida, has acquired Applejack Wine & Spirits, a top Colorado-based beverage retailer. This marks ABC's first expansion outside of Florida in its 90-year history and the start of the company's national growth plans. The three Applejack locations in Colorado will now operate as "Applejack by ABC", allowing ABC to leverage Applejack's strong reputation in the Mountain West region.

Why it matters

This acquisition represents a major strategic shift for ABC, which has remained focused on Florida for the past nine decades. Expanding into Colorado provides ABC with a foothold in a new market and aligns with the company's plans for broader national expansion, particularly in the Southeast. The deal also allows ABC to capitalize on Applejack's brand recognition and operational expertise in Colorado.

The details

Under the terms of the deal, ABC has officially acquired Applejack Wine & Spirits, a Colorado-based retailer with three large-format store locations in the greater Denver area and Colorado Springs. Applejack was founded in 1961 and has become known for its curated wine selection, extensive spirits and beer offerings, knowledgeable staff, and delivery services to nearby ski areas. The Applejack stores will continue to operate under the "Applejack by ABC" name, allowing ABC to leverage the brand's strong reputation in the region.

  • ABC Fine Wine & Spirits was founded in 1936 in Orlando, Florida.
  • Applejack Wine & Spirits was founded in 1961 in Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
  • ABC has acquired Applejack, with the deal officially closing on January 29, 2026.
  • ABC plans to open two new stores in Florida in February and March 2026.

The players

ABC Fine Wine & Spirits

A leading family-owned and operated alcohol beverage retailer based in Florida, with over 125 locations across the state. The company was founded in 1936 and has remained privately owned through multiple generations.

Applejack Wine & Spirits

A top Colorado-based wine and spirits retailer, founded in 1961 and known for its curated selection, knowledgeable staff, and delivery services to nearby ski areas. Applejack has three large-format store locations in the greater Denver area and Colorado Springs.

Charles Bailes III

The Chairman and CEO of ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, leading the company's expansion plans.

Jim Shpall

The former CEO of Applejack Wine & Spirits, who has been a full or partial owner of the company for more than 30 years.

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What they’re saying

“This is a milestone in ABC's history and a major step toward our overall expansion plans. Applejack has an exceptional reputation in the industry and is an iconic beverage retailer in Colorado. We're proud to carry on its legacy of family ownership and operational excellence.”

— Charles Bailes III, Chairman and CEO, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits (PRNewswire)

“ABC Fine Wine & Spirits understands what it means to build a business rooted in family values that connects with every community they serve. We've partnered with this family for 30 plus years and their ownership of Applejack means the same great experience for our customers and team while opening new opportunities for future growth.”

— Jim Shpall, Former CEO, Applejack Wine & Spirits (PRNewswire)

What’s next

ABC has two new store openings planned in Florida for February and March 2026, and the company's future out-of-state expansion will focus on the Southeast region, with more details to be announced later this year.

The takeaway

This acquisition marks a significant milestone for ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, as the family-owned Florida retailer expands its footprint nationally for the first time in its 90-year history. By acquiring the iconic Applejack brand in Colorado, ABC can leverage the local expertise and reputation to drive growth in a new market, while preserving the independent, community-focused spirit that has defined both companies.