King Charles and Queen Camilla sampled some of Australia’s best wines during the welcome ceremony for their royal visit to Australia.
The federal government organized the parliamentary reception for Their Majesties in the Great Hall, welcomed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Mrs Jodie Haydon, on Monday evening.
His Majesty and his wife sampled some local wines from Australia’s famous wine-growing regions, including Shiraz from the Barossa Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaret River.
The best part? The five bottles on the menu cost less than $40 each.
The royal wine selection included Josef Chromy Sparkling NV ($32.99), Hentley Farm Eden Valley Riesling ($28), Hentley Farm Barossa Shiraz ($36.50) and Castelli Silver Series Chardonnay ($25).
The most affordable wine the royal couple enjoyed was the Cape Mentelle Marmaduke Cabernet Sauvignon, which is modestly priced at $18.99.
This velvety wine is made from lots of red fruits and dark, soft flowers.
The “vibrant ruby” drop is said to be a “wonderful introduction” to Margaret River Cabernet and pairs perfectly with an eye fillet with green pepper sauce or a mushroom pasta dish.
The standout wine on the menu was the Hentley Farm Barossa Shiraz, priced at $36.50, made from fruit grown in the estate’s vineyards in South Australia.
King Charles and Queen Camilla at the parliamentary reception where the wines were served
The royal wine selection included Cape Mentelle Marmaduke Cabernet Sauvignon, $18.99 (left) and Josef Chromy Sparkling NV, $32.99 (right).
Their Majesties were able to taste some local wines from Australia’s famous wine-growing regions during the welcome ceremony for their royal visit to Australia.
The King and Queen enjoyed a refreshing taste of Tasmania’s Josef Chromy Sparkling NV, priced at $32.99.
This variety of white wine has been described as having a “delicate flavour”, with a “lively palate” of crisp Granny Smith green apple and lemon with hints of toasted biscuit.
Exceptional wines were paired with Australian dishes made from native ingredients including Bundaberg Key Crab, Armidale Shepherd Pie, Griffith Salted Murray Cod Croquette, Tasmanian Salmon and WA Falafel with Davidson Plum.
The royal couple enjoyed a sweet plate of Messina caramel slice, acacia seed lamington, cheesecake, Anzac biscuits and frangipane tarts.
Wine wasn’t the only drink on the menu.
The King and Queen were offered a selection of beers, including Great Northern, as well as its non-alcoholic counterpart and Furphy ale.