It’s Marilyn Monroe, in a bottle
COSTA MESA — Marilyn Monroe said diamonds are a girl’s best friend.
Wine, though, promises to be a close second Friday at a Hi-Time Wine Cellars event inspired by the iconic Hollywood bombshell.
The event from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Costa Mesa store’s wine bar is hosted by Thirsty Girl and Napa Valley-based Marilyn Wines, which will be celebrating its 25th anniversary and the release of its 2009 Marilyn Merlot.
The wine retails for about $29 and features a label with a silk-screened image of the starlet.
“We’ve been selling the wines since they came out,” said Hi-Time owner Tobin James. “People love them. People have always loved Marilyn Monroe, so when the merlot came out, it developed quite a following.”
The event will also feature a Marilyn Monroe impersonator and free tastings.
“It’s an easy-to-drink wine,” said Donna Holder, Marilyn Wines co-owner. “It’s mellow, velvety, soft, luscious — generally the same descriptions people use for Marilyn Monroe.”
The 2009 merlot is ready to drink, but should keep for a decade.
While the event is hosted by Thirsty Girl, “thirsty boys” are welcome to join the party, too, said Thirsty Girl owner Leslie Sbrocco.
Her company is all about celebrating a passion for food, travel, libations and life — something that Marilyn Monroe embodied, Sbrocco said.
“I’d like to consider that Marilyn was a Thirsty Girl,” she said. “I’m sure she was. Thirsty Girl is about living life to the fullest and enjoying it.”
Twitter: @speters01
*
If You Go:
What: Marilyn Wines tasting and 25th anniversary eventWhen: 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 14
Where: Hi-Time Wine Cellars, 250 Ogle St., Costa Mesa
Cost: free
Information: Call Hi-Time at (949) 650-8463 or visit https://www.marilynwines.com