Perhaps Winston has changed it policy. I have had excellent warranty service from them in the past.
I bought a blemished blank from a third party dealer several years ago - no warranty card, but very low price.
When later broke the rod I contacted Winston looking for a replacement part. They told me they would replace the whole blank at no cost since ALL Winston rods are unconditionally guaranteed!
I was really impressed by this and it factored into my rod buying choices over the years (I now own 4 Winston rods) I hope your experience is a mistake and not a change in policy.
You might want to contact them again and speak to someone else...