IVWA 2010: Best Label Design

The old adage may tell you not to judge a book by its cover, but, from time to time, we all judge a wine by its label. A good wine has its own personality, which can shine through on the nose, on the palate and even on the bottle. With the vast selection of similarly priced wines on the shelf, presentation has become a big part of wine purchases and, as a result, a major factor in the wine industry. In recognition of the best that producers have to offer in this area, we invited three experts to the Wine Access 2010 IVWA to pick the 10 best wine labels based on design.

The judges approached each wine with a single question in mind: “How effectively does the label communicate to the consumer, and how well does it market the brand?” Bottles were ranked based on the following criteria: brand/varietal recognition (Does the consumer know what the wine is? Who made it and where it is from?); overall originality and creativity (Does the bottle stand out in a crowd of its peers?); and general design elements (The use of typography, graphics and paper stock).

And the winning labels are...

Bear Flag N/V Red Wine Blend #1

Brand/Varietal Recognition: Although the name of the wine is prominent and easy to distinguish, there is a playful word-search quality which makes time spent hunting for varietal information engaging and enjoyable.

Originality and Creativity: This label is a visual smorgasbord. A real treat to behold, it’s like stumbling on a masterpiece when you least expect it. It doesn’t just stand out in the company of other labels; it demands an artistic movement in label design.

General Design Elements: The use of illustration could be overwhelming, but the consumer is drawn in by the small, elaborate details. The bold visuals are equally matched by the edgy, yet beautifully executed, hand-rendered type. The whimsical die-cut around the edge of the label sends the overall visual message right over the top — in a good way.

Blasted Church 2009 Gewürztramminer

This is approachable and inviting for consumers who may not have a deep understanding of wines. As a branding tool, it encourages consumers to purchase other varietals within the brand, prompting new trials and customer loyalty. (HB)

Artisan Wine Co. 2007 Rigamarole Red

Each label has a different animal doing some sort of wine-induced activity with a funny story. The graphics are a dance between classic and playful, with traditional colours, sophisticated typesetting and a fun sense of the hilarious. (PL)

Big House 2008 Red

When I get out of the joint, the first thing I like to do is enjoy a big bowl of risotto. Of course, you can’t have a hot bowl of Italian starches without a good, homey house wine — that would be criminal. (PL)

Henry of Pelham 2008 Sibling Rivalry White

The design of this pop art-inspired label is edgy and modern. The jarring, yet effective, combination of teal, red and bold typography delivers a refreshing twist on the traditional family-owned winery. (TJ)

Dirty 
Laundry 2009 Riesling

The embossed steam makes purchasing a tactile experience, allowing the consumer to trace the pattern, holding a bottle a little longer, creating a more intimate buying experience. (HB)

Road 13 2009 Honest John’s Rosé

The classic red, white and black palette, combined with the silhouette of the tractor is elegant in its simplicity. This label design feels honest and unpretentious. (HB)

La Posta 2008 
Pizzella Family 
Vineyard Malbec

The simple execution, use of type and illustration are timeless and elegant. This label markets itself on the tradition and custom that comes with indulging in the finer things. (TJ)

Bleasdale 2008 Second Innings Malbec

The serif font and antique image speak to history and legacy, but the placement of the off-centered photo brings it in line with contemporary design. (TJ)

Xanadu 2008 Next of Kin Cabernet 
Sauvignon

Two concepts cross roots with the idea of family heritage and grape vine lineage on this slick and stylish label. It appears to be a great wine for the entire family to enjoy while discussing the finer points of the De Stijl art movement. (PL)

Want to see more great labels?

Read about the stories and ideas behind some of these winning labels.

Meet the Judges

Teresa Johnston 
is the art director for Wine Access and the Wine Access Canadian Wine Annual, as well as various custom and consumer publications. An artist in her own right, Johnston’s sculptures have appeared in galleries in Ontario and Alberta.

Hayley Ballinger is the Creative Director and one of the founding partners of Ball Creative, a boutique design firm specializing in packaging design. She has 15 years of experience creating strong retail brands across Canada.

Pierre A. Lamielle is the multi-faceted illustrator/writer/cook behind the Gourmand award-winning Kitchen Scraps: A Humourous Illustrated Cookbook. He’s a firm believer in the “I’ll cook, you bring the wine” method of wine selection.