Trying for a John Lewis refund on a Xmas Wine Gift

busymumof3

HI I'm looking for anyone's past experience of refunding/exchanging from John Lewis. I've never had cause for complaint before but today went into town with an unwanted gift hoping for vouchers to use for something with a bit more purpose! There was a huge stack of them on sale for the full price of £45 - a leather box with glass decanter and bottle of plonk. I was informed by the sales assistant that it was not policy to refund food or drinks items and indeed it was illegal. Given that the box itself is wrapped and we are talking about a bottle of wine, it is obvious that it has not been tampered with. Wondered if there was any point taking it up with their customer services. PS After this and last years dodgey hamper my father in law has now been informed that we do not drink - well not £45 bottles!!
I'd be grateful for any advice. As was a gift and I don't have a receipt I know that I am on shaky ground anyway.

busymumof3

I sent an Email to John Lewis Customer Services at my local store via the online site and was told they would be happy to give me an exchange for the full value at my convenience! Very pleased and will now be looking for some curtains in the sale! I thought this was a bit odd as Tesco, Waitrose etc accept returns of wine. Anyway I am now a very happy bunny. :santa2: