A specially crafted mocktail inspired by a classic Nigerian beverage has been designed for the King's lavish banquet, as the monarch hosted the first state visit by a Muslim leader during Ramadan in nearly a century. The opulent dinner in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle honoured Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, with adaptations made to respect Muslim guests observing the holy month.
Adaptations for Ramadan and Notable Guests
The Crimson Bloom mocktail, a non-alcoholic after-dinner tipple, is one of several adjustments at the banquet. For the first time in living memory, canapes were served pre-dinner to provide sustenance for Muslim guests unable to partake in iftar earlier at sunset. A prayer room was also set up in the castle for breaking the fast, and the menu featured fish instead of traditional meat, with dishes like fillet of turbot and lobster mousse.
Menu Details and Royal Traditions
The starter was a vegetarian soft-boiled quail egg tartlet, while dessert was an iced blackcurrant souffle. President Tinubu made his toast with orange juice, and the after-dinner cocktail is a twist on the Nigerian Chapman drink, using Zobo made from dried hibiscus flowers mixed with English rose soda. The King introduced the tradition of bespoke after-banquet cocktails, though usually alcoholic; wine was served to non-Muslim guests.
Historical Context and Event Significance
This event marks the first spring banquet hosted by the King at Windsor Castle during his reign, with decorations including pink, white, and yellow blooms from royal gardens. The last state visit by a Muslim head of state during Ramadan was in 1928, when King Amanullah Khan of Afghanistan was hosted by George V. A royal aide explained the adaptations, noting the importance of accommodating fasting schedules.
Guest List and Royal Attendance
Among the 160 guests were England rugby captain Maro Itoje, Olympic gold medallist Christine Ohuruogu, and singer Tiwa Savage. Nine members of the royal family attended, including the King, Queen, Prince and Princess of Wales, and the Duke of Edinburgh. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer was also present, seated next to rugby star Maro Itoje, amid discussions on Middle East conflicts affecting UK-US relations.
Logistics and Table Settings
The banquet used the silver gilt Grand Service, commissioned by George IV, with 4,000 pieces including 62 pepper pots and 480 knives. The 47-metre mahogany table was adorned with handpicked spring flowers from Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle gardens, enhancing the festive atmosphere for this historic diplomatic occasion.
