One of the most influential "wine minds" of our time is Kermit Lynch, a prominent importer based in Berkeley, Calif. Lynch began his career with a small specialty shop, Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant.

Lynch imports artisan wines mainly from France but also includes a few from California and Italy.

About 25 years ago he wrote "Adventures on the Wine Route," essentially a diary of his travels in France while in pursuit of artisan wines. His writings provide insights into the hows and whys of his selection process and the development of his portfolio over the years. It’s a personal and practical insider’s point of view.

The book also sheds light on Lynch’s "wine culture," something I find particularly compelling. He says a wine is more than a grape variety and the type of oak barrel used to make it; it’s also about a sense of place, culture and heritage.

For me, this is what makes the book a game changer. No other book discusses wine this way, and it can inspire wine lovers to appreciate new horizons.

Part of its genius is how it delivers these messages in a practical, readable way. 

Over the years, I’ve asked Lynch when he’ll release a new book. He always replies that he said everything in that one book.

But last fall, Lynch released an updated, 25th-anniversary edition of "Adventures on the Wine Route." I was most thankful that he sent me a pre-release copy. I am now reading it for the fifth time, and as with every read, I’m finding some nuance I hadn’t appreciated before.

Chuck Furuya is a master sommelier and a partner in the DK Restaurants group. Follow his blog at chuckfuruya.com.