Popular custom crush winery warns of 'wind-down process'

It's become a war of words between the publication that first broke the news, Wine Industry Insight, and Crushpad owners who have denied allegations that the company, which allows oenophiles to custom-make small lots of wine, could be shuttering its doors.

This week the website published an email that was supposedly sent to investors warning that a "wind-down process" could be imminent if they're unable to raise enough capital to cover costs. The shortfall? $500,000.

Crushpad struck back at the publication on Twitter, claiming that the article was full of inaccuracies and that the outfit is still open for business. But in follow-up interviews, spokespeople suggested they're hoping for a last-minute turnaround, telling Decanter that they hope to receive good news, ‘shortly.' Industry experts blame the recession for the company's losses.

The whistleblower who sent the email to Wine Industry Insight claims they did so to protect investors' interests.

Similar to Crushpad is The Ranch Winery, in St. Helena, California, which is also a full winemaking facility.