A luxurious state banquet was hosted by King Charles III on September 17, 2025, for US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania at Windsor Castle. The menu celebrated the culinary traditions of both the US and the UK, showcasing a variety of premium wines and spirits.
Among the offerings was a vintage English sparkling wine, Wiston Estate Cuvée Brut 2016, served to an exclusive guest list of 160. Additionally, the legendary Ridge Vineyards contributed their Monte Bello 2000 vintage, highlighting the significance of California wines at this notable gathering.
While Trump reportedly abstains from alcohol, the banquet featured an array of fine beverages for other attendees, including a 2018 Corton-Charlemagne grand cru Burgundy from Domaine Bonneau du Martray, owned by US businessman Stan Kroenke, and Pol Roger ‘Extra Cuvée de Reserve’ 1998 Champagne, a favorite of Sir Winston Churchill.
To commemorate the event, a unique US-UK cocktail blended smoky whisky with bright citrus, finished with pecan foam and garnished with a toasted marshmallow on a star-shaped biscuit.
Desserts offered a choice of spirits that included 1912 Hennessy Grande Champagne Cognac, symbolizing Trump’s Scottish heritage through his mother’s birth year, and a 1945 Warre’s Port, potentially nodding to his presidency as the 45th US president. A rare Bowmore Queen’s Cask 1980 Scotch whisky, bottled for Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee, was also part of the evening’s selections.
The dinner commenced with a ballotine of organic Norfolk chicken accompanied by courgettes and a savory jus, preceded by a starter of Hampshire watercress panna cotta with Parmesan shortbread and quail egg salad. As tradition dictates, the menu was presented in French, underscoring the ceremonial nature of the event.
During the banquet, King Charles III expressed the enduring bond between the US and the UK, emphasizing the significance of shared heritage and friendship.
For more details, you may refer to the BBC report or The Independent.