an interesting insight into international business and the supply chain involved.  it would seem that the nature of the business, serving many consumers from relatively few producers, puts the consumers at higher risk than most food related businesses. I hope it works out for the frauded buyers and confidence in the market is not eroded too much

Another example of one person's ego getting in the way of a business that once held much promise.  It is far too easy to use the Internet to delay the inevitable consequences of poor business management.  And, when you add a product that is easy to "lose" (wine futures), you have a recipe for a quick solution to a long-term problem!

I have had a similar problem chasing down wine futures from a vendor.  Eventually, and with much work, I was able to secure my wine, but I later found out that the company was in financial difficulty.  "Buyer beware" has never been more important, whether you are buying a used car through a newspaper ad or making a minor purchase on ebay!  The handshake has now been replaced by user feedback, and that is not necessarily a bad thing, but it does require us to participate in order that all are aware of the people with whom we are dealing.

As a business owner, you learn early on to be fair and honest with each customer and all your business dealings.  There are checks and balances in any good business model to make sure you manage your business right.  When dealing with international trade, you really need to have an established relationship or you run the risk of problems just like these.  It doesn't take much to lose your business or your customers if you make the wrong decisions along the way.