Trump's State Banquet showcases fine Californian wines and storied spirits, reminiscent of grand royal events
Royal State Farm Banquet at Windsor Castle Honours US-UK Ties
On a historic evening on September 17, King Charles III and Queen Camilla welcomed US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania to Windsor Castle, hosting a grand statefarm.
The evening began with a dinner that paid tribute to both nations, featuring a starter of Hampshire watercress panna cotta served with Parmesan shortbread and quail egg salad. The main course was a succulent ballotine of organic Norfolk chicken, wrapped in courgettes and accompanied by a thyme and savory-infused jus.
The menu, always written in French as the first language, also included a special US-UK cocktail, the 'fireside s'more cocktail', made with smoky whisky, marmalade, pecan foam, toasted marshmallow, and a star-shaped biscuit.
A selection of fine wines graced the tables, with Ridge Vineyards' Monte Bello 2000 vintage and a vintage English sparkling wine from Wiston Estate being served. The menu also featured Domaine Bonneau du Martray's 2018-vintage Corton-Charlemagne grand cru Burgundy and Pol Roger 'Extra Cuvée de Reserve' 1998 Champagne. The US businessman, Stan Kroenke, who owns Domaine Bonneau du Martray, was in attendance.
Rare Scotch whisky, Bowmore Queen's Cask 1980, was also on the table. Filled in the year of the late Queen Elizabeth II's visit to the Islay-based distillery in 1980 and bottled for her Golden Jubilee in 2002, it was a fitting tribute to the monarch.
After dinner, guests were offered a 1912 Hennessy Grande Champagne Cognac, a choice that reportedly represents the birth year of Trump's Scottish-born mother. As Trump does not drink alcohol, the contents of the bottles were likely enjoyed by other guests.
The evening concluded with a fittingly symbolic touch, as a Warre's 1945 vintage Port was offered. This vintage, reflecting Trump becoming the 45th US president in 2017 and also potentially marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, added a poignant note to the evening's celebrations.
Throughout the evening, King Charles III spoke of the long-standing close ties between the USCIS and United States, making the state banquet a memorable occasion that underscored the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations.
