I would ordinarily suggest Holy Cross Abbey in Berryville VA, which makes fabulous fruitcakes. They are in some kind of discernment process and didn't make the usual number this year, but it looks like they have some at the gift shop if you are willing to drive.

Zingermans--they may overnight it. I think it's $100 though...

I've made good ones.. chocolate whiskey fruitcake. A+

I'd try a world market, TJ maxx, etc. Maybe buy three or two and a panettone and have a tasting?

There's got to be a church sale around here somewhere; that's where my mother gets her fruitcake fix. They're usually alcohol free, but you can always pour a little rum or brandy over the top every day.

Rodmans usually have British ones. Maybe World Market.

How about a nice Panettone? Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, both have some nice ones.

I love Claxton fruitcake from Georgia, but you may or may not consider it "good." Alcohol does not seem to be involved. Harris Teeter carries it and theirs are usually fresh and not dry.

I have never seen a good fruitcake for sale in a store, although I have made many good fruitcakes. They were especially good after I soaked them in half a bottle of brandy or rum. I'm sorry that I can't help.

My dad loves fruitcake. It's what he wants for Christmas. Where in DC or Virginia do they sell a good one? We're not that close to Wegmans, which was my first thought.