Meet the Team

Rooted in the Mountains. Refined in the Bluegrass.

Appalachian Barrel Company was founded by three friends — brothers Jade and Jesse Haddix, and Dr. Heath Brashear — all proud sons of the Appalachian region. Together, they bring a mix of heritage, hard work, and vision to Kentucky’s bourbon landscape. Each founder plays a distinct role in shaping the company’s mission to craft authentic, story-driven single barrel bourbons that honor where they’re from and celebrate where they’re headed.

Jade Haddix

Owner / Marketing Manager & Creative Financial Director

Born and raised in Eastern Kentucky, Jade blends creative vision with financial discipline to steer the brand’s identity and growth. He oversees everything from label design and marketing strategy to brand partnerships and company financial planning. Jade ensures each release tells a story — visually, emotionally, and authentically — while keeping the business positioned for long-term success.

Focus: Creative direction, marketing strategy, partnerships, and financial management.

Jesse Haddix

Owner / Barrel Program Manager & Single Barrel Program Coordinator

Jesse is the heartbeat of Appalachian Barrel Company’s single-barrel program. He manages the private selection experience — coordinating tastings, guiding clients through barrel choices, and maintaining precise inventory. His role bridges the gap between craft and customer, ensuring every barrel that bears the ABC name meets the company’s uncompromising standards.

Focus: Barrel selection, client relations, operations, and brand consistency.

Dr. Heath Brashear

Owner / Sales & Brand Relations Manager

A respected surgeon and proud Appalachian native, Heath brings focus, leadership, and professionalism to the Appalachian Barrel Company team. His eye for detail and commitment to quality mirror his surgical precision — helping refine how the brand approaches sales strategy, partnerships, and customer relationships. Heath’s balanced perspective keeps ABC growing with authenticity and purpose.

Focus: Sales development, brand relations, and strategic growth.

Dr. Andrew Pacitti

Strategic Investor & Advisor

Dr. Andrew Pacitti is a board-certified Emergency Medicine physician and strategic investor in Appalachian Barrel Company. Known for his analytical mindset and ability to make sound decisions in high-pressure environments, Andrew provides valuable guidance on business strategy, growth initiatives, and long-term planning.

Passionate about entrepreneurship and Kentucky bourbon, he helps support the company's continued growth while ensuring it remains true to its Appalachian roots and commitment to quality.

Focus: Strategic planning, business development, and long-term growth.

Ivey Workman

Chief Compliance Officer

Ivey Workman serves as Chief Compliance Officer for Appalachian Barrel Company, overseeing regulatory compliance, licensing, and governance. An attorney with extensive experience in alcohol beverage regulation and bourbon industry law, Ivey specializes in helping brands navigate the complex legal and regulatory requirements of the spirits industry. Her expertise helps ensure Appalachian Barrel Company operates with integrity while supporting continued growth and expansion into new markets.

Focus: Bourbon industry compliance, licensing, regulatory affairs, and risk management.

Together

What began as an idea shared between brothers and a close friend has grown into a bourbon company rooted in authenticity, craftsmanship, and Appalachian pride. The founders of Appalachian Barrel Company believe in doing things the right way — with patience, purpose, and respect for tradition — creating bourbon that tells the story of where they come from and where they’re going.