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Wine From Nixon's Historic China Visit to Be Served at Trump-Xi State Dinner

Jeong Seong-jin

Published : Sep 24, 2026 10:47 PM


(Photo: AP, Yonhap News) ▲ President Trump greeting Chinese President Xi Jinping at the airport

A wine commemorating former U.S. President Richard Nixon's historic visit to China in 1972 is set to be served at the state dinner hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump for Chinese President Xi Jinping.

According to the state dinner plans pre-released by the White House, President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will host the state dinner for President Xi and First Lady Peng Liyuan in the East Room of the White House on the evening of the 24th (local time).

The dinner will be attended by official delegations from both countries, as well as business leaders and government officials.

Preparations for the dinner event were led by First Lady Melania Trump.

The White House explained that the menu blends American ingredients with subtle Chinese elements, bringing together the culinary traditions of both nations.

The dinner will begin with a toast featuring Schramsberg Vineyards' "Blanc de Noirs," an American sparkling wine.

This wine is the same one used during the "Toast to Peace" shared by then-U.S. President Richard Nixon and Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai in Beijing during Nixon's 1972 visit to China. The White House explained that it was chosen to honor that historic toast.

The first course features a yellow squash velouté garnished with herb-roasted wild mushrooms, crispy pancetta, and scallion oil.

The second course is a pan-seared sea bass with toasted sesame seeds, served alongside baby bok choy, roasted eggplant, and an herb-based sauce.

For dessert, vanilla cream filled with tart cherry confit will be served over a walnut frangipane, accompanied by ice cream made with honey harvested at the White House.

Red, which has long held symbolic meaning in Chinese culture and history, was actively utilized in the decor of the banquet hall.

Vases filled with red flowers, such as dahlias and ranunculus, will be placed on tables covered with red tablecloths.

Gilt silver tableware from the White House collection and the "Reagan State Service" china set will also be used.

Tenor Christopher Macchio, who performed at President Trump's 2025 inauguration, will take the stage for the dinner entertainment.

Performances by the U.S. Marine Band, the Fife and Drum Corps, the U.S. Army Chorus, and a string ensemble will also take place.

(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)