Marilyn Merlot 1998
Marilyn Merlot 1998 is the 14th vintage of Marilyn Wines' Napa Valley Merlot — a 750mL bottle at 13.5% ABV, blending 92% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc from the Oakville, Rutherford, and Yountville growing areas of Napa Valley. Like every vintage, it was released on June 1 — Marilyn Monroe's birthday — and like every vintage, its collectible value starts with the label: the 1998 photograph is a departure from "Hollywood" Marilyn, a softer, more innocent "graduation picture" that photographer Milton Greene shot at Marilyn's own request while experimenting with costumes and makeup for The Prince and the Showgirl. Order online at Del Mesa Liquor for San Diego delivery or pickup.
- ABV: 13.5%
- Size: 750mL
- Vintage: 1998 — the 14th vintage, released June 1 (Marilyn's birthday)
- Region: Napa Valley, California (Oakville, Rutherford, Yountville fruit)
- Blend: 92% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc; oak-aged
The Milton Greene "Graduation Picture" Vintage
Every Marilyn Merlot release is two products: a Napa Valley merlot and a Marilyn Monroe photograph. For 1998 the winery reached back to Milton Greene — the photographer who, mid-session for The Prince and the Showgirl, captured this pristine, almost shy portrait at Marilyn's request. Collectors chase specific vintages for specific images, and the 1998 is one of the gentlest in the series — a long way from the bombshell iconography. The wine itself is made in the house style: supple, oak-seasoned merlot from longtime Napa Valley growers, bottled by Marilyn Wines (Nova Wines), the Monroe-licensed brand founded by Bob and Donna Holder with its first commercial vintage in 1985. Browse more collectible labels in our merlot and red wine collections.
Tasting Notes
Supple and approachable, with cinnamon and vanilla aromas from the oak complementing milk chocolate and black cherry flavors from the fruit. The 8% Cabernet Franc adds a little backbone to the merlot's softness — a smooth, early-drinking Napa red built for enjoyment rather than the cellar.
How to Enjoy
Serve at cool room temperature (60–65°F) with roast chicken, pork tenderloin, or a mushroom risotto. This is a drink-now vintage — no decanting required, though 30 minutes of air won't hurt. See everything from the producer at Marilyn Wines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What photo is on the 1998 Marilyn Merlot label?
A "graduation picture" portrait by Milton Greene — shot while experimenting with costumes and makeup for The Prince and the Showgirl, at Marilyn's request — a softer, more innocent image than the usual Hollywood glamour shots.
What is the blend of Marilyn Merlot 1998?
92% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc, from Oakville, Rutherford, and Yountville in Napa Valley.
When is Marilyn Merlot released each year?
June 1 — Marilyn Monroe's birthday — the traditional annual release date for every vintage.
Collectors and merlot lovers alike will want this one on the shelf — order the 1998 vintage online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.