Andrew Maugham of London N1 writes:
Is this normal practice in the wine trade?
Is this normal practice in the wine trade?
Sainsbury's sent me an email offering me a half case of Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2007 at a cost of approx £18 a bottle. This was a considerable discount on the £26 which my usual supplier (Laithwaites) ask, so I took it up. On delivery, however, the consignment consisted entirely of the 2006 vintage. You don't need me to tell you that that's not the same thing. What made it worse was that the label on the outside of the case claimed it was 2007.
The man from Sainsbury's customer relations told me (via email exchange) that it was a mistake by their supplier who turned out to have only 2006 available. But they sent it out to the customers without explanation anyway.
I frankly have difficulty believing them. Was it sharp practice by Sainsbury's? Or was I gullible in thinking I could get the 2007 vintage at such a good price?
With many wines I would welcome an extra year’s bottle age but not this one and I advised Andrew Maugham not to accept the 2006. Sainsbury's have agreed to take the wine back and refund him. Has anyone else had a similar experience? If so, please tell us about it below.