This review has been updated here.
Five Rivers cabernet sauvignon, which normally goes for $11 or more and was recommended by your Wineguider here, is now selling for $8.99 at Total Wine and, I’m told, at Wegmans. Thereby CATAPULTING it into “Best Value” status. Juicy, yet packing a dry punch full of tannins, it’s not as full-bodied as some other cabs, but it does almost nothing wrong.
Is there another $9 cabernet sauvignon on planet Earth that is this good? I DON’T KNOW.
Are any red wines this good, at $9? Yes: Mark West pinot noir, and super-tannic Zestos especial. But they have strong personalities that prevent them from being budget crowd-pleasers. Five Rivers is generic enough that almost anybody can enjoy it. Admittedly, this is also its downfall: it can be kind of plain. And maybe a little sweet for a “real” cabernet sauvignon.
But at this price, I don’t know of any cabernet that comes close. To my budget red wine drinking friends – enjoy!
Wineguider wine reviews 
Thank you!
Oh, hey, I found this bottle at Wegmans today for $8.99 also, fyi!
Thank you! I will update the post to reflect this.
We tried it last night and HOLY CRAP is it good for that price! Thanks for the really good recommendation!
You’re welcome! That’s great to hear. Maybe I’m ready to go national?
Well, I definitely trust your recommendations based on what I’ve read so far. We actually liked it so well we’re taking it to a dinner party with some other budget-conscious friends tonight. Went to Wegmans for it this morning. What a rockin’ bottle! Still $8.99.
WG! Found your site today and based on the review of Five Rivers, I must say I love your opinions already! The wife and I are cutting veggies for the stuffing, listening to Christmas music (too early IMHO, but what are you gonna do? She’s happy) and drinking a bottle of Five Rivers. WOW! Love it and couldn’t beat the price at $9.99.
Paid a dollar more, but it was at a Publix grocery store. Thanks for the great blog!
You’re very welcome!
I’m in!!! It’s only $7.99 at our local Total Wine store here in Virginia. Can’t wait to pick up a bottle…or two!!! 🙂
OK but please be sure to read the Update review, referenced at the top. My opinion on the more recent vintage has changed.
Will do. 🙂