Funky Drummer
Rye Whiskey Finished in Jamaican Rum Casks
Doc Swinson’s Funky Drummer is a bold, electrifying rye whiskey that hits differently than most rye’s finished in rum casks. Driven by high-ester Jamaican rum casks that richens the spice profile with tropical fruit funk, deep molasses tones, and explosive aromatics. Inspired by our love of rye and tiki drinks.
THE STORY BEHIND THE SPIRIT
Funky Drummer celebrates improvisation, complexity, and tradition in the rum world. We selected 2 rye whiskeys with spice, sweetness, and structure, then laid them down in high-ester Jamaican rum casks, known for their wild fermentation character and signature “funk” profile often loved by bartenders to give that little extra to their tiki cocktails.
The result: a rye whiskey that hits classic spice profiles, tropical fruits and complexity.
The Finish Cask(s):
High-ester Jamaican rum barrels are some of the most expressive casks in the spirits world, born from long, wild fermentations that create intense aromatic esters reminiscent of overripe pineapple, banana, molasses, and unmistakable “funk.” When used to finish rye whiskey, these barrels add layers of tropical sweetness and fermented depth that amplify the rye’s natural spice rather than overpower it. The result is a whiskey with louder aromatics, richer fruit character, and a uniquely rhythmic finish—bold, funky, and full of personality.
WHAT MAKES FUNKY DRUMMER UNIQUE
Blend of American Rye Whiskeys
95% rye, 5% malted Barley (MGP) -Selected for spice and boldness
51% rye, 45% corn, 4% malted barley (MGP) Selected for structure, spice, and balance.
Finished in High-Ester Jamaican Rum Casks
Originally Tennesse whiskey barrels from you know who then used to age Jamaican rums for upwards of 20 years before making their way back to Doc Swinson’s. These casks often still have a puddle of rum in them when we receive them, often so dark and funky you can only manage a small sip without overpowering your palate. These casks layer in overripe tropical fruit, molasses, pineapple funk, and deep natural sweetness.Wild Aromatics
Jamaican rum esters amplify rye grain spice, creating a rare cross-category flavor collision that brings caramel and molasses as the backdrop to a spicey Caribbean rum cake.Layered, Expressive, Complexity
This finish is perfect for those looking for more depth, more aromatics and more, well, everything from their rye whiskey. Makes a mean Manhattan as well.
TASTING NOTES
Aroma | Overripe pineapple, brown sugar, baking spice, and a hint of what is known as muck funk in the rum industry.
Palate | Punchy rye spice upfront, quickly giving way to caramelized tropical fruit, molasses, toasted oak, and a flash of funky esters. Rich and full-bodied.
Finish | Long molasses, clove, tropical funk, and warm oak.
HOW TO ENJOY
Neat — showcases the bold funk and rye interplay
Rum-Rye Old Fashioned — amplifies brown sugar and tropical notes
Manhattan — a wild, refreshing crossover for adventurous drinkers
KEY SPECS (Release Notes)
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KEY SPECS
Category: Finished Rye Whiskey
Process: High-Ester Jamaican Rum Cask Finish
Proof: 99.3 (49.85% ABV)
Release No. 25-001
Bottled: October 15th 2025
Minimum age of batch: 8 years
Maximum age of batch: 11 years
Barrel Info:
First fill new charred oak #4 - 7 years minimum
Ex rum casks for 1 years and 4 years
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PROOF: 101.9 | 105.3 (Batch 22-0013)
PRODUCING DISTILLERY: MGP
BATCH NOTES: Mash-Bill 1: 95% rye, 5% malted barley | Mash Bill 2: 45% corn, 51% rye, 4% malted barley
TASTING NOTES: Pineapple, banana syrup, fuji apple, clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, and loads of vanilla
SELLING POINTS (AT A GLANCE)
High-ester Jamaican rum finish creates immediate intrigue and differentiation
Bridges rum geek culture with modern whiskey enthusiasm
Big flavor, big nose, and big character--ideal for bars looking for a feature pour
Limited-release pedigree drives demand with collectors
Artwork on bottle: Marz Nixon