Eric Palmer

Eric Palmer is a Fine Wine Specialist for Republic National Distributing Company. He consults with restaurants and retail shops throughout Georgia to craft award-winning wine lists and enhance their beverage programs. In 2023 he won the title "Best Young Sommelier in America" and represented the U.S. in the international finals of the Chaine des Rotisseurs' Jeunes Sommelier Competition where he placed in 3rd amongst 14 sommeliers from around the globe.

An active member of Atlanta’s vibrant wine community, Eric participates in tasting groups and mentors those studying for wine exams and competitions. He also enjoys participating in wine dinners for non-profits, and in recent years has been a member of the sommelier team for La Paulee and the High Museum Wine Auction. He is passionate about Bordeaux, and was honored to be a scholar in 2023's Bordeaux Mentor Week hosted by Jane Anson and Chinedu Rita Rosa.

In 2020 he helped open The Chastain restaurant. As Assistant Sommelier he was integral in achieving Wine Spectator's “Best of Award of Excellence” and winning Atlanta Magazine’s “Best Wine List” in 2021. The Chastain received a Michelin Green Star and Recommendation in 2023. Eric also spent some time on the retail side of the industry with Perrine's Wine, where he had the pleasure of showcasing one of the most extensive Burgundy and Champagne collections in the Southeast.