Fake Bordeaux fine wine company exposed

A fake wine company which accepted more than £1 million in sham investments in Bordeaux fine wines has been exposed by UK police.

Up to £1million is believed to have been invested into Le Bordeaux Wines Limited, which was launched on the internet in October 2012 from London, and ran for over a year.

It was registered with Companies House in December 2012 and its website offered investment opportunities in the trading of fine wines.

Police began an investigation after a Staffordshire-based wine company came forward to contact officers over its dealings with the company.

The investigation established that wines sold to investors did not exist, and that any investors who sold their wine through the company did not receive any money.

A 25-year-old man in London has been arrested, so far, on suspicion of fraud by false representation and conspiracy to defraud.

He has been bailed, pending further inquiries, to a date in April.

Officers believe up to 30 businesses or individuals may have been affected, with some as far away as Hong Kong.

DC Chris Pope, investigating officer for Staffordshire Police, said: “I would like to hear from anyone who has invested in this company, or bought wine from this company, to contact me.

“No matter how much money has been lost it is vital that all those who invested come forward.

“The company’s website is now deactivated and if people try to access it they will be directed to Action Fraud, and ultimately myself.”

Anyone with information, who has fallen victim to Le Bordeaux Wines Limited, or has had any contact with the company, is urged to contact DC Chris Pope at Staffordshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 258 of 9 December 2013, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.