Sometimes it’s not the name or the flavor that strikes you when browsing the wine aisles or with your head stuck in the beer case, but the beautiful packaging that makes you want to find out just what’s inside.
From breweries to wineries, producers are creating these eye-catching labels to complement their drink. Whether they have an in-house artist, partner with a local artist for a limited release or hold a contest to have a community members artwork featured on a bottle, the unique artwork gives the bottle a touch of personality on the shelf. Here are six that look as good as they taste.
Belle Fiore Winery 2014 Belle Arte Barbera, Southern Oregon
For the past four years, this winery holds a competition for artists in Southern Oregon to have their art featured on that year’s “Belle Arte” wine. Lin Dickson painted a vibrant grape design that won the label prize in 2014. The colors swirl around this full-bodied wine fit with flavors of wild strawberries, cherries, and dark chocolate.
Gigantic Brewing Co. Kholshtastic
Known for their specially designed labels, it was only fitting to include this kolsch-style beer, inspired by the ales of Cologne, Germany. With a crisp flavor balanced with malt and hops, the clean blue and red label reflect the style of this beer entirely. Label artist Rob Reger’s style peeks in with tiny black cats that appear in many of his other works work.
Ninkasi Brewing Co. Dawn of the Red
Dawn of the Red was originally launched for Eugene, Oregon, brewery’s 2015 Halloween Campaign. Rightly so, the label is filled with a scene of zombies. The label is designed by Neal Williams, a Eugene-based illustrator and screen printer, as well as Ninkasi’s in-house artist. His work is featured in many of the company’s campaigns, including artwork for the Total Domination IPA advertisements and the limited-edition Ground Control imperial stout.
Woodward Canyon 2014 Artist Series Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley
Woodward Canyon winery has been holding their “Artist Series” since 1992. Each year their Cabernet Sauvignon is dressed in a different design by a different artist. Their 2014 label features the artwork of Lynda Lowe. Her watercolor and oil painting, titled “Released,” depicts two birds flying over a muted green landscape.
WildCraft Ciderworks Delawaken
WildCraft Ciderworks released Delawaken for a special release in honor of Dia de Los Muertos. It has notes of chiles, rose buds, raspberries and tequila. Artist Steven Lopez creates a beautiful label featuring a skull with bold red roses and raspberries on an eye-popping yellow backdrop. The label honors the unique flavors and the thoughtful message behind this creation.
Chateau Ste Michelle 2014 Artist Series The Sound Label, Columbia Valley
Chateau Ste Michelle features an elegant series of artist labels on their proprietary reds each year. Their 2014, “The Sound” label, features a blend of rich and vibrant colors to match the wine’s similarly noted flavor.
