The King and Queen hosted a lavish black-tie dinner at Highgrove, celebrating Italian cuisine while marking their 20th wedding anniversary on April 9. Among the esteemed guests were Italian-American actor Stanley Tucci and Italian ambassador Inigo Lambertini. The event, rich in culinary artistry, featured a menu crafted by renowned Italian chef Francesco Mazzei and was inspired by Tucci's TV series "Tucci – The Heart Of Italy". The dinner also showcased a star-studded guest list, including David and Victoria Beckham, Dame Helen Mirren, and other notable figures.
The dinner highlighted the fusion of British ingredients with Italian culinary traditions, aiming to embody the principles of Slow Food—a movement that emphasizes sustainable and local food production. Chef Mazzei's menu offered a tantalizing array of dishes, beginning with canapés such as Rare and Pasture 'Salumi', Tuscan-style paté and coppa, Yorkshire Pecorino cheese puffs, and British vegetables Caponata.
Guests were treated to a main course featuring Suffolk Red Porchetta, accompanied by pumpkin and sage mash and Tuscan kale, paired with a fine Barbaresco Gaja 2021. The dessert selection included Zuppa Inglese and Biscotti, complemented by Recioto della Valpolicella Classico Zenato. The culinary experience was enhanced by Italian mixologist Alessandro Palazzi, who crafted beverages using Italian flavors and herbs from Charles's cherished Highgrove Gardens.
The event not only celebrated the royal couple's milestone anniversary but also underscored their commitment to sustainability and harmony with nature. This commitment is central to the King's Foundation, which promotes the King's vision of "living in harmony with nature". Stanley Tucci praised the foundation, aligning its mission with his own advocacy for Slow Food, describing it as "two of my obsessions".
"The spirit of your husband all his life" – Dame Helen Mirren
In addition to the culinary celebration, the King and Queen are set to embark on a state visit to Italy and the Vatican in early April. This visit coincides with their anniversary and includes an audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican. During their visit, they will participate in the Catholic Church's Pilgrims of Hope jubilee year celebrations.
The dinner at Highgrove served as a prelude to this significant diplomatic visit, reinforcing the cultural ties between the United Kingdom and Italy. Inigo Lambertini's presence further highlighted the importance of this connection.
