Returns & Refunds Policy | The Drift Estate

Returns and Refunds Policy

Last updated: January 2026

At Appelsdrift Farm (Pty) Ltd (trading as The Drift Estate), we strive to provide accurate product descriptions, high-quality images, and premium wines so you can shop confidently. If you are not satisfied, this policy outlines your return and refund rights under South African law, including the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act 25 of 2002 (ECTA) and Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 (CPA).

Important Notes for Alcohol Products

Wine and related products are perishable and intended for human consumption. Due to their nature and liquor laws requiring responsible sales, returns for “change of mind” are limited to unopened, sealed, and resaleable bottles in original packaging.

We cannot accept returns of opened, partially consumed, or unsealed alcohol products except where defective, damaged, or non-compliant with CPA standards. All returns are subject to inspection.

1. Cooling-Off Period (No-Fault / Change of Mind Returns)

ECTA Section 44

For online purchases (electronic transactions), you may cancel the transaction without reason or penalty within 7 days after receipt of the goods.

  • You must notify us within the 7-day period.
  • Goods must be unopened (for alcohol), unused, in original packaging, and resaleable.
  • You bear the direct cost of return (e.g. courier or postage fees).
  • We will refund the full purchase price (excluding return shipping) to your original payment method within 30 days of cancellation and receipt/inspection of goods.

Exclusions: This right does not apply to perishable goods that deteriorate rapidly (such as opened wine), custom-made items, or other exclusions under ECTA.

2. Defective, Damaged, Incorrect, or Non-Compliant Goods

CPA Sections 55–56

If goods are defective, unsafe, damaged on arrival, not fit for purpose, materially different from description, or otherwise fail CPA quality standards:

  • You may return them within 6 months of delivery.
  • Notify us promptly (ideally within 7 days of discovery).
  • For delivery issues (breakage or incorrect items), notify us immediately.
  • At your choice and our expense, we will repair, replace, or refund the full purchase price, including original delivery fees where applicable.
  • Goods must be returned in the condition received (other than the defect), with original packaging where possible.

For latent defects (those existing before delivery), proof may be required (such as expert assessment for wine faults like cork taint). Where CPA applies, collection will be arranged at our cost.

3. How to Arrange a Return

Contact us immediately at orders@thedrift.co.za or +27 21 180 3668 with the following information:

  • Your order number
  • Details of the issue and product(s)
  • Photos of the problem (if defective or damaged)
  • Your preference (refund, replacement, or store credit)

A representative will respond promptly, confirm eligibility, and provide instructions. Do not discard items unless instructed by us.

All returns are inspected. Refunds are processed to the original payment method (or store credit if agreed) within a reasonable time, typically 10–30 days.

4. Special Offers, Promotions, and Bundles

Returning part of an order may affect eligibility for promotions such as free gifts or bundled discounts. Associated items may need to be returned for a full refund or credit.

5. Additional Rights and Complaints

This policy does not limit your statutory rights under CPA, ECTA, or other applicable laws. If you are dissatisfied with our handling of a return or refund, you may contact the National Consumer Commission or a relevant consumer ombud.

For questions, please email orders@thedrift.co.za.

Drink responsibly. Not for sale to persons under 18.