Auction purchases sit a little differently from retail purchases. Because LANGTONS cannot always verify how an auction wine has been cellared — and because mature wines naturally vary — Buyers accept certain considerations when acquiring at auction. This article explains when a remedy may still apply. For your broader rights, see the Returns & Refund Policy.
Consumer guarantees and auction purchases
Auction wines are often mature, rare, or sourced from private cellars. Factors such as age, storage history, ullage, label condition, closure condition and natural bottle variation can shape the wine over time. As a result, some consumer guarantees under the Australian Consumer Law may apply differently to auction wines — including guarantees relating to acceptable quality or fitness for purpose. We encourage Buyers to read each lot description with care before bidding.
When a claim may be considered
If you notify LANGTONS in writing within 28 days of delivery that the wines are materially different from their description, we will review the matter with care.
Information we may request:
- a clear description of the concern
- supporting photographs of the bottle, label, capsule and fill level
- the original tax invoice or proof of purchase
- return of the bottle and any remaining contents, where practical
- any other information reasonably required
Please retain the bottle, closure and packaging until your claim has been reviewed.
Possible outcomes
If, following review, LANGTONS is reasonably satisfied that a listing error has occurred, we may, at our discretion, replace the wines, provide a voucher, or refund the amount paid. Each claim is considered on its individual merits.
Mature wines (over 15 years)
These undertakings generally do not apply to wines older than 15 years where the concern is reasonably attributable to age — including changes affecting cork, colour or taste.
How to lodge a claim
- submit an enquiry via our Customer Experience contact form, or
- call us on 1300 946 347