Wine, murder, and a group of trapped neurology providers—sounds like the perfect recipe for a gripping mystery. Dr. Jesse V. McClain IV, an award-winning wine educator and neurology expert, has ventured into the world of fiction with his latest work, The Corked Incident. This thrilling murder mystery brings together his love for wine, his medical background, and a sharp storytelling style that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
A Toast to Mystery: What is ‘The Corked Incident’ About?
The Corked Incident is a suspenseful, slow-burning mystery that unfolds one chapter at a time. The story revolves around a tight-knit team of neurology professionals who find themselves stranded at a remote lake house during their annual retreat. What was supposed to be a weekend of relaxation and team bonding quickly takes a deadly turn when Jamie, also known as “The Wine Doc,” is found dead under mysterious circumstances.
With no way to escape and suspicion brewing among them, Jamie’s colleagues—Lori, Traci, Chris, Abby, Nina, and Eve—must confront the chilling possibility that one of them is the murderer. As the tension rises and secrets come uncorked, the real question remains: was Jamie’s death an unfortunate accident or a perfectly orchestrated crime?
To heighten the suspense, McClain has chosen to release the book as a serialized story, with one chapter dropping each month. The first chapter, Bottle 1: The Annual Retreat, has already been released, setting the stage for the intrigue to follow. The next installment, Bottle 2: An Unlikely Accident, is set to be released on February 28, 2025, leaving readers eager for more.
Where Mystery Meets Wine
McClain’s decision to write The Corked Incident isn’t random—it perfectly blends two of his greatest passions: neurology and wine. His experience in the medical field brings authenticity to the novel’s characters and their dynamics, while his expertise in winemaking and education creates a rich backdrop that adds depth to the story.
In fact, The Corked Incident fits seamlessly with McClain’s ongoing blog series on wine education. Through his vineyard, Vanny’s Vineyards, he regularly shares insights on wine culture, history, and appreciation. The novel is an extension of this passion but with a fictional and sinister twist. It’s a fascinating mix of a classic whodunit and a deep dive into the world of wine—one that both mystery lovers and wine enthusiasts will savor.

Meet the Mind Behind the Mystery: Dr. Jesse V. McClain IV
Dr. Jesse V. McClain IV isn’t just another writer dabbling in fiction—he’s a multi-talented expert in both neurology and wine. After completing his Doctorate in 2017, McClain dedicated over a decade to the field of neuroscience, specializing in both inpatient and outpatient care. His extensive background in healthcare law and stroke recovery adds an extra layer of realism to his medical-themed storytelling.
But his expertise doesn’t stop at medicine. A passionate wine enthusiast, McClain has studied the art and science of winemaking for years. In 2009, he earned a certification from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, and in 2021, he achieved the prestigious title of French Wine Scholar (FWS). His vineyard has won three international awards—two for Sauvignon Blanc and one for Malbec—solidifying his reputation in the wine world.
His previous book, The Wine Doctor, which educates readers on wine from a scientific and historical perspective, was named the 2023 Nonfiction-Education Book of the Year. Now, with The Corked Incident, he’s taking his storytelling in a thrilling new direction, proving that wine isn’t just for drinking—it’s also a perfect setting for mystery.
Where to Read ‘The Corked Incident’
For those eager to dive into this suspenseful story, The Corked Incident is available to read on Vanny’s Vineyards’ blog. With a chapter released every month, the novel offers a slow but rewarding unraveling of a mystery that will keep readers guessing until the very end.
Get started with Bottle 1: The Annual Retreat and be ready for Bottle 2: An Unlikely Accident on February 28, 2025.
Whether you’re a fan of mysteries, a lover of wine, or just someone who enjoys a well-crafted story, The Corked Incident is a book worth savoring—one chapter at a time.
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