Robert Palmer (vintner)
Robert Palmer | |
|---|---|
| Born | Robert Joseph Prignano Template:Birth date Forest Hills, Queens, New York, U.S. |
| Died | January 16, 2009 (aged 74) |
| Occupation(s) | Advertising professional, Winemaker |
| Known for | President and CEO of Kelly Nason; founder of Palmer Vineyards |
Robert Palmer (July 16, 1934 – January 16, 2009) was an American advertising professional who transitioned into winemaking, becoming a key figure in the advancement of the wine sector on Long Island's North Fork region.
Originally named Robert Joseph Prignano and born in Forest Hills, Queens, he adopted the last name Palmer early in his professional life to simplify his identity. His education took place in Queens Village, Queens and at Chaminade High School in Mineola, New York. Entering the advertising industry as a teenager without pursuing higher education, Palmer rose to become president and CEO of Kelly Nason by 1970. During his leadership, the company’s billings grew from $14 million to $140 million before he departed in 1978. The following year, he launched RJ Palmer, a media buying agency which he eventually sold in the 1990s but continued to be involved with until near his passing.
Following his exit from Kelly Nason, Palmer acquired vineyard property in 1983 located in Aquebogue, New York, Suffolk County, despite having limited experience in viticulture. He inaugurated Palmer Vineyards in 1986, creating one of the most technologically advanced wineries within the burgeoning North Fork wine district. His approach prioritized visitor engagement and hospitality. As an early significant investor in the area’s wine industry, Palmer Vineyards produces approximately 16,000 cases each year, with a focus on Cabernet Franc and sauvignon blanc varietals. The winery was among the pioneers on Long Island to distribute wines internationally. Its offerings have been featured on American Airlines flights and served at notable establishments across the country, including Manhattan’s Gallagher's Steak House, where it is designated as the house wine.
Although Palmer personally preferred martinis, he maintained direct oversight over all wine production. His enthusiasm for blindfolded wine identification contributed to his development of wine tasting as a personal pastime.
Palmer passed away at age 74 due to a blood infection on January 16, 2009. He is survived by his wife Lorraine Wittmer, to whom he was married for five decades, along with four daughters and three grandsons.