Vinesse - American Cellars Wine Club Credit card charged without my knowledge, items shipped without knowledge, would not refund shipping charges Windsor California

As stated by other members, I have had the same problems with American Wine Cellars. I joined this club for the Amtrak points, and I cannot believe that Amtrak (or other trusted airline point clubs) would offer anything from a scam business like this.

I joined in June, and received my introductory package and enjoyed it. Within less than a month, I was shipped a 'Seasonal' package without my knowledge. I was lucky I checked their website to see if I was going to be charged every month, like other scam operations do, and I noticed that 'Seasonal' package was sent to me on 7/10. They were also asking me for my credit card number again online, so I called and canceled that day.

I noticed on my online banking statement that I was charged $99.97 on 7/13, the day I canceled my accont. I called on 7/20 to get my money refunded, and was told that they could only refund 78.97 to my card (not the $21.00 shipping). This was after being disconnected once while waiting for a supervisor. (I was told that a supervisor was not available, and one would call me back...yeah, right!)

I called back and did get a supervisor (Beverly), and after some very shrewd talking by me and mentioning the lawyer-word, she said she would refund the $21, but it would take a week-and-a-half.

I also filed a report with my bank. I am not holding my breath on getting any of that money back right away. I also mentioned the 2000 plus Amtrak points to the customer service agent, and I did not want another Odyssey in trying to get those. She said she credited them and they were 'uploaded' to Amtrak. I won't be holding my breath for those either.

This is another scam that people unfortunately get caught up in, and when I could not find a way to cancel online on their web page, it tipped me off. Avoid this company!

Mar-jean
Evans City, Pennsylvania
U.S.A.