Murder on the Wine Train

Bruce Alan Jensen

MWT-cover

 

Prologue

 

Hank stepped into the vestibule wanting to enjoy one of his cigars but knew that would be in poor taste. Leaning against the wall next to the open door, he felt the rush of cool air as the train cruised through the valley splitting vineyards on either side.

The road leading to St. Helena paralleled the tracks as the train passed miles of vineyards, interspersed with estates and wineries, surrounded by brightly colored flowers and stately tree-lined esplanades. Hank mentally revisited France, from the coastal hills and valleys of Loire to the southern fields near Provence.

In Napa Valley, the grapevines and trees breathed in fresh, fragrant fall air. There was a soothing rhythm of the rails. How could Hank have ever been unhappy? Could anyone be sad in a world as lovely as this?

Of course, murder has a way of changing a person’s mood. . . .

 

ONE
Wednesday, November 20

 

In the wilderness, feeling completely free comes naturally. The forests, streams, lakes, mountains, desert, and all that nature offers are the driving force for him to explore. Occasionally, he’s taken the opportunity to include these places in his writing assignments. He has lived in congested, crime-laden cities where most occupants had little opportunity to experience the beauty only miles from the city center.

Retirement is not what Hank expected. Someone once said to him, expectations are premeditated disappointments. After being wounded by a suspect in a shoot-out five years ago, he was forced to retire. Not having a regular job was tough at first, but he’s become accustomed to being semi-retired, working as a freelance writer. He travels the country in his motor home with his traveling companion, Molly, a seven-year-old black lab. When he checked her into a pet hotel this morning, she whined until another lab galumphed up to her inviting her to play. “See you later, girl, I’ll be back tonight,” he said.

The air in Napa Valley is crisp and cool on the fall day. Grapes grown in the valley are distinct because the summers are warmer than Sonoma County to the west or Santa Barbara County to the south. As a result, the Napa wineries favor varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Gamay, and Merlot while the specialties of Sonoma and Santa Barbara wineries are Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Several Napa Valley wineries are unveiling exceptional Beaujolais Nouveau wines, and Hank’s writing assignment is to cover this inaugural event. Any foodie or wine aficionado who has not experienced a Wine Train event is missing out on one of the most exciting cultural experiences of a lifetime.

The attendees include celebrity chefs from around the world, wine connoisseurs, and renowned restaurant owners. Tickets sell out well in advance. Part of the proceeds go to the Student Enology Apprentice Program (SEAP) associated with the University of California at Davis and Fresno State University. As an alumnus of Fresno State, Hank jumped at the chance to cover this event.

As he approached the bar for a taste of the offerings, from behind him, he heard, “Henry Carson! So good of you to join us.” Charles Beaumont, promoter of the event, always calls Hank by his given name, ignoring the request to be called Hank. One would think that Charles’ jovial nature wouldn’t be so formal.

Charles Beaumont is a wealthy philanthropist whose business involves board positions with a few Fortune 500 companies. His five-foot eleven stature, rotund body, thinning white hair, neatly trimmed white beard, flushed cheeks, and jolly smile, brings to mind the image of, Santa Claus.

“Charles, good to see you again,” Hank said as they shook hands.

Charles pulled Hank into a bear hug. “You’re looking good, my friend.”

“You are looking good yourself,” Hank gasped. Charles released his hug and stepped back leaving his arms on Hank’s shoulders. “I’m glad I got this assignment. It gives us a chance to catch up. So, how’s the turnout?”

“There are over two hundred people who’ve made contributions. That nets about $85,000 to cover part of the expenses for students who qualify for the SEAP apprenticeship programs at the wineries. Along with the six wineries here, there are another eight who have participated in the program. Other fundraising events are scheduled.”

Charles’ broad smile showed his pride.

The eight-car train rolled out of the station at eleven o’clock after everyone was on board. Charles led the way to the wine bar located in the Silverado car, where they received the first tasting glass of wine, the Silverado Winery’s Beaujolais Nouveau. As Charles pointed out the unique features of the train, he elaborated on the chefs and restaurateurs in attendance. Each of the authentically restored cars looked the way it did in its prime, from 1914 through 1929. He described the complexities related to the production of a good Beaujolais and the public awareness of the introduction of the Napa Valley Beaujolais Nouveau.

“What makes a good Beaujolais?” Hank asked.

Murder on the Wine Train Description:

Hank Carson, a former LA Police detective, now semi-retired is writing an article for a national, is embroiled in a mysterous murder. The victim is an abusive food and wine critic. Hank secures the crime scene on the famous Napa Wine Train. He assists the CBI during interrogation of over 200 suspects.

He is attracted to the lead CBI agent. It is an entertaining “Who Dunnit” with romance and sex. Less Former Los Angeles Police detective, Hank Carson has dealt with crime, corruption, mayhem and gang violence.

After eleven years with the LAPD he has the time to see and experience the wonders that this country has to offer as a free lance writer. He travels the country in his RV with his loyal companion,

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