Moonlight Sinatra was released in March 1966 by Reprise Records. Produced by Sonny Burke, arrangements and conducting were by Nelson Riddle. Recording sessions took place at Reprise Studios in Hollywood, California, in early 1966.
The album is a theme album centered on songs that mention the moon, focusing on romantic ballads and soft orchestrations. It was Sinatra's last studio album with arrangements by Nelson Riddle until 1980.
The album reached number 5 on the Billboard 200 chart. Although it did not produce major hit singles, it is appreciated for its cohesive atmosphere and the chemistry between Sinatra and Riddle.