For Chef Adam Cooke, cooking is a celebration of place, season, and the farmers who make each ingredient possible. Rooted in Montana and now deeply connected to the Upstate South Carolina community, Adam has built his culinary philosophy around a thoughtful relationship with the land and the people who cultivate it.
As Executive Chef and co-founder of Topsoil Restaurant in Travelers Rest, Adam creates dishes that reflect the rhythm of the seasons, drawing inspiration from Topsoil’s own farm and the region’s local growers. His dedication to farm-to-table cuisine and his creative approach have earned national recognition, including being named a James Beard Award semifinalist and South Carolina Restaurant Chef of the Year and Michelin guide recognition!
For Adam, every plate tells a story—one of craftsmanship, community, and a deep respect for the ingredients that bring people together around the table.

At Topsoil, Adam creates inventive, vegetable-forward dishes that reflect the rhythms of the land—earning recognition from the James Beard Foundation and a mention in the Michelin Guide’s American South selection

For Tay Nelson, barbecue is a celebration of heritage, family, and the art of bringing people together. A native of Fountain Inn, South Carolina, Tay began learning the restaurant craft at just twelve years old alongside his father, eventually managing lunch service during his high school summers. After losing his father and brother, Bobby Sr. and Bobby Jr., Tay honored their memory by creating Bobby’s Seasoning—a blend inspired by his father’s recipes and the foundation for what would become Bobby’s BBQ.

Inspired by the traditions of Central Texas barbecue, Tay dedicated himself to mastering the craft of slow-smoked meats, studying techniques from renowned pitmasters and transforming his passion into one of the Upstate’s most celebrated barbecue experiences. His dedication earned him First Place Brisket at the Mauldin BBQ Cookoff and recognition for his perfectly smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, house-made sausage, and thoughtful approach to every detail.

Alongside his wife, Sarah, and their five children, Tay continues to build Bobby’s BBQ around the values that started it all: Faith, Family & Food—a true reflection of the memories, traditions, and connections created around the table.

Andy and Marissa Amador are the passionate founders and stewards behind Madorom Wines, a Napa Valley winery built on a shared love of exceptional wine, meaningful connections, and the artistry of winemaking. Their approach reflects a deep appreciation for the land, the craft, and the stories that unfold with every vintage. For Andy & Marissa Amador, wine has always been about family, hard work, and bringing people together. As the son of legendary Napa Valley butcher Gus Amador, Andy grew up learning that the best meals—and the best memories—begin with genuine hospitality. While helping in his father’s meat market, he also spent countless hours among the vineyards of Napa Valley, developing a deep appreciation for the land that would one day shape his future.
At just 27 years old, Andy purchased a 188-acre ranch in eastern Napa Valley, where he planted vineyards at the base of Mount Veeder. His vision took an exciting turn in 2001 when he met acclaimed winemaker Mike Blom. Andy asked Mike to produce a small lot of Cabernet Sauvignon from his vineyard, and the results were extraordinary. That first vintage became the foundation of what is now Madorom Wines—a winery built on exceptional fruit, thoughtful winemaking, and a commitment to excellence. Andy & Marissa's generosity extends well beyond the vineyard. Believing that wine has the power to unite people around meaningful causes, he has opened his estate to country music artist Matt Stillwell, hosting intimate concerts and fundraising events that support the fight against ALS. Inspired by Matt’s mission to honor his late coach, Keith LeClair, Andy has helped create unforgettable evenings where great wine, music, friendship, and philanthropy come together in support of families affected by ALS.
 Their commitment to quality, authenticity, and hospitality shines through in every bottle, inviting guests to experience not only the wine itself, but the passion and purpose behind it.
Tonight, they join us in celebrating the beautiful intersection of wine, cuisine, music, and community—sharing the story of Madorom Wines and the journey from vineyard to table.

Matt Stillwell is a country music storyteller whose songs are rooted in authenticity, family, and the moments that shape our lives. Raised in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Matt brings a heartfelt perspective to his music, weaving together themes of home, resilience, love, and the experiences that connect us all.
Before pursuing music full-time, Matt was an accomplished athlete at Western Carolina University, where he played baseball before following his passion for songwriting and performing. One of the most compelling parts of Matt’s story is that his commitment to ALS isn’t abstract—it’s deeply personal. His beloved college baseball coach at Western Carolina, Keith LeClair, lost his battle with ALS in 2006. Coach LeClair’s courage and influence inspired Matt to establish the 723 Foundation, using music and community to honor his mentor’s legacy while raising awareness and funding for ALS research and support.Over the years, he has built a loyal following through his honest lyrics, powerful live performances, and commitment to creating meaningful connections with his audience.

Whether performing on stage or sharing the stories behind his songs, Matt embodies the spirit of country music—real stories, real heart, and a celebration of the people and places that inspire us.