Protecting Collector Wines

[tallblonde]

I have started collecting the Marilyn Merlot series and it was suggested that I protect the labels from fingerprints and frayed edges, etc. Any helpful hints on how to do this while still allowing the bottles to be viewed in a wine rack? Is clear plastic advised or not? Any help is appreciated.
Thanks... and please be kind. I've noticed some of you 'old pros' can be pretty harsh on us newbies.

[This message has been edited by tallblonde (edited 01-16-2001).]

[chittychattykathy]

I would use polyester book jacket covers (clear mylar, like what libraries cover the dust jackets with). Cut into the desired lengths, wraped around the bottles, & secured with two sided, archival quality, tape on the side. (This stuff is handy for many, many other things as well!)
Oh, and welcome!
From the sweet and kind (younger) pro, CCK.

[winecollector]

Not being sure of how serious of a collector you are, you'll also want to make sure they are properly cellared as well, for optimum storage and value. Though I have to admit, the early Marilyn Merlots have become quite expensive, and it has nothing to do with the quality of the juice in the bottle. You never know for sure what people will pay money for these days.....

Just curious, what years do you already have, and which ones do you need?

[tallblonde]

Thank you for the responses. I am more of the Marilyn Monroe fan, than a fan of wine, and I am collecting them for that purpose, not to drink. I've been told that they are for display and collection more so than for consumption and I have yet to taste one because I don't want to open the bottle. I started getting MM wine as a gift in 1994 since she and I share the same birthday and the new releases come out on our birthdate every year. I have from 1994 to the present, nothing prior to that. And, yes, some of the earliest editions are in the $1000 range! Thanks again for your help!