King Charles has demonstrated his potential for a career change, expertly pulling a pint of Guinness declared 'perfect' during the launch of a new brewery and visitor attraction in the heart of London.
A Royal Lesson in the Art of the Pour
The monarch visited the newly opened Guinness Open Gate Brewery in Covent Garden on Thursday 18 December 2025. During the tour, he stepped behind the bar for a masterclass in the revered ritual of pouring the iconic Irish stout. Guided by Guinness experience ambassador Leo Ravina, the King was instructed on the precise technique required.
Charles was told to hold the glass at a precise 45-degree angle before pulling the pump. He stopped when the glass was approximately three-quarters full, adhering to the crucial waiting period that allows the dark beer to settle. The entire process, famously taking 119.5 seconds, gave the King time to chat with his guide before adding the final creamy head.
From Perfect Pint to Festive Topping
Upon completion, Mr Ravina declared the result an ideal pint. With characteristic dry humour, the King responded, "if you say so." The finished drink was then taken to a special machine where edible dyes were used to print the words 'Merry Christmas' and a sprig of holly directly onto the foam. Charles watched with interest before taking a tentative sip of his handiwork.
His exploration of the brewery's offerings did not end there. In the building's basement microbrewery, the King conducted a taste test of several craft beers. He sampled a porter, a winter warmer, and an apricot sour, remarking that the latter did not taste like a traditional beer.
Seal of Approval from a Guinness Ambassador
Leo Ravina was thoroughly impressed by his royal pupil's efforts. Following the event, he gave the King the ultimate endorsement, stating, "He did great, that was an ideal pint of Guinness. He's got the job – he's hired."
The visit successfully marked the launch of the new London-based Guinness experience, blending tradition with innovation, and proving that with the right guidance, even a King can master the art of the perfect pour.
