President Trump's Second UK State Banquet Features Symbolic 1945 Port and Elaborate Menu at Windsor Castle

President Donald Trump was honored with a lavish state banquet at Windsor Castle, hosted by King Charles III, during his second state visit to the United Kingdom. The meticulously planned dinner, held in St George's Hall, featured a three-course menu and symbolically chosen after-dinner drinks, despite the President's well-known abstention from alcohol. This event underscored the diplomatic ties between the two nations and marked a rare second state banquet invitation for a U.S. President.

The culinary experience commenced with a starter of "Hampshire watercress panna cotta with Parmesan shortbread and quail egg salad," as detailed by attendees. The main course presented "organic Norfolk chicken ballotine wrapped in courgettes with a thyme and savoury infused jus." For dessert, guests enjoyed a "vanilla ice cream bombe with Kentish raspberry sorbet interior with lightly poached Victoria plums."

Following the meal, a selection of historically significant beverages was offered. Guests were served a "1945 vintage port," chosen to acknowledge President Trump as the 45th U.S. President. Additionally, a "1912 cognac" was presented, commemorating the birth year of President Trump's Scottish-born mother. The offerings also included a Bowmore Queen’s Cask 1980 single-malt scotch whisky.

"Trump does not drink alcohol and reportedly had soft drinks during dinner," the tweet noted, a fact widely reported by media outlets covering the event.

The state banquet was a grand affair, attended by approximately 160 guests, including high-profile political figures, members of the Royal Family, and prominent tech industry leaders such as Apple CEO Tim Cook and OpenAI's Sam Altman. The setting in St George's Hall, known for its rich history and intricate decor, was prepared with 1,452 pieces of cutlery and 139 candles, reflecting the grandeur of the occasion. The event also featured musical selections, reportedly including some of President Trump's preferred campaign rally songs, and toasts exchanged between King Charles III and President Trump, emphasizing the enduring "special relationship" between the UK and the United States.