Marilyn Merlot 2006
Marilyn Merlot 2006 is the 22nd vintage of Marilyn Wines' Napa Valley Merlot — a 750mL bottle at 13.9% ABV (retailer-stated), blending 85% Merlot with 15% Cabernet Sauvignon from longtime growers ranging Yountville to St. Helena in the middle of Napa Valley. Winemaker John McKay notes the Cabernet addition gives the predominantly merlot-based wine extra character and aging ability, and like all vintages it sees one-third new oak barrels. The 2006 label shows Marilyn in a daringly low-cut dress in a 1958 photograph — a dress believed to be the one she wore at the debut announcement of Some Like It Hot. Order online at Del Mesa Liquor for San Diego delivery or pickup.
- ABV: 13.9% (retailer-stated)
- Size: 750mL
- Vintage: 2006 — the 22nd vintage, released June 1 (Marilyn's birthday)
- Region: Napa Valley, California (Yountville to St. Helena growers)
- Blend: 85% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon; one-third new oak
The "Some Like It Hot" Dress Vintage
The 2006 label freezes Marilyn in 1958 in a daringly low-cut dress — believed to be the very dress she wore to announce Some Like It Hot, the comedy that would become her biggest hit. It's one of the bolder images in the Marilyn Merlot series, and it sits on a wine built to back it up: McKay's 15% Cabernet Sauvignon addition gives this vintage more structure than the softer, all-merlot-leaning years, with toasted-oak aromas and a more complex mouth feel from the new-oak tannins. The fruit flavors read soft and mature — a Napa merlot at its most classic. Find more of the series in our merlot collection and everything from Marilyn Wines.
Tasting Notes
Soft, mature fruit with toasted-oak aromas and the appropriate complexity from one-third new barrels. The Cabernet component adds structure and dark-fruit depth to the merlot's plushness — a smooth, food-friendly Napa red with gentle tannins.
How to Enjoy
Serve at 60–65°F alongside grilled lamb, beef short ribs, or aged gouda. The added Cabernet structure means it handles heartier food than the softer vintages; decant 30 minutes if you like. More Napa reds await in our red wine collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What photo is on the 2006 Marilyn Merlot label?
A 1958 photograph of Marilyn in a daringly low-cut dress — believed to be the dress she wore at the debut announcement of Some Like It Hot.
What is the blend of Marilyn Merlot 2006?
85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, from growers ranging Yountville to St. Helena in Napa Valley, aged in one-third new oak.
Is the 2006 a collectible vintage?
All Marilyn Merlot vintages are collected for their labels; the 2006 pairs a famous image with a structurally serious wine, making it a favorite of both camps.
Add a little Hollywood history to your cellar — order Marilyn Merlot 2006 online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.