Daniel Johnnes was drawn to the world of wine and food as a visiting college student in France. Now considered one of the top sommeliers and most respected wine personalities in the country, Johnnes is Wine Director for the restaurant empire of Danielle Boulud; author; and owner of Daniel Johnnes Wines in New York City.

"The greatest influence for me has been my exposure to French culture," said Johnnes.

When Johnnes returned from France, he shaped his career as a sommelier and started his own company importing wine in New York City, winning many awards and eventually being named the nation's top sommelier in 1995 by the James Beard Foundation.

Johnnes is also the author of the "Daniel Johnnes Top 200 Wines, An Expert's Guide to Maximum Enjoyment for Your Dollar," published in 1996, with an updated edition in 2004. He has been a guest on "CBS This Morning," NBC's "The Today Show" and the Food Network.

Interests: Spending time with his family, traveling and participating in sports

On Wine: "What's great about wine is it's capacity for creating friendship… sitting together at a table, drinking wine and talking and laughing-that's what it's all about."