On May 4, in the spirit of the Cinco de Mayo-themed Kinetic Sculpture Race, Mr. Rain’s Fun House hosted a Mexican-inspired tasting of Ilegal Mezcal liquors showcased in three mouth-watering cocktails. According to Perez Kelbahn, Ilegal Mezcal is popular in the D.C. market but is expanding slowly into Baltimore bars, many of which are eager to have a craft mezcal on the shelves.

The first drink was a classic interpretation that featured Ilegal Joven Mezacal, Dimmi Liquore de Milano, Carpano Antica Formula and Campari. This amber colored beverage had a strong taste that showcased the powerful mezcal flavor.

Served in a classic wine glass, the second cocktail also featured Ilegal Joven Mezcal mixed with Williams & Humbert Dry Sack Sherry, pineapple gastrique and Peychaud’s bitters. The drink was finished off with a saffron foam that melted into the cocktail, adding a honey-like taste that made this beverage the favorite of many guests.

Rounding out the drinks was a punch prepared with Ilegal Reposado Mezcal, Cocchi Americano, Crop Cucumber Vodka, smoked white tea, cinnamon tincture and Angostura bitters, garnished with a cucumber. The distinct cucumber flavor left a fresh and crisp taste, perfect for the early summer weather.

The dinner tasting menu, arranged by Chef Buzinski, was also inspired by the race and its Cinco de Mayo theme. Intense flavors including hot salsa verde, fresh chilis and roja a la veracruzana were woven into the first three dishes of the night leaving a powerful burn on the palate. The slow-roasted goat was the highlight of the tasting, with fall-apart meat paired with a cactus and strawberry salad that added freshness and color to the plate. The final course was a light tres leches cake and a margarita lollipop that ended the night on a high, sweet note.

Guests enjoyed the beautiful evening from the balcony of the restaurant which overlooked many of the sculptures to be utilized in the next day’s race. Amongst the attendees was Tom Jones, webmaster for the Kinetic Sculpture Race, who educated guests on the history of the race, which began in 2001. He told amusing stories of failed engineering, with the highlight being the folly of using twine as a binding material in the Harbor portion of the race.

Mr. Rain’s Fun House hosts many fundraising tasting events throughout the year, found on their events page, so check back often for your next opportunity to sample some of their elevated mixed drinks and cuisine.

Photos by Liz Rapaport