The Art of the Wine Label

We introduced the Hottest Wine Label as part of this year’s Hot 100 to recognise the design talent that helps market our great products across the world.

The wine label has shaped South Australia’s design culture as it is the backbone to many studios in South Australia. A specialty not for every designer, there is an art to capturing the unique nature of the juice in the bottle, where it comes from and the creative person behind the wine, as well as designing something visually appealing and unique to the customer at the point of purchase.

From early pioneers such as Wytt Morro to Barrie Tucker and Ian Kidd in the ‘80s and ‘90s through to contemporary designers such as Barbara Harkness, KSD, Parallax, Mash and Voice, these people have shaped the wine label and pushed the boundaries of design, not only in Australia, but internationally.

With the Hottest Wine Label award, our aim is to celebrate excellence in wine packaging design. We judged the entries on originality, creativity, functionality and print production.

Winner: Elderslie Hills Blend #1
– Designer: Parallax
This is a striking label. The design sits outside of current label trends and gives the wine a distinct and unique personality. Like the wine within, the design is contemporary, intriguing and unique.

The concept
The combination of the two minds behind the wine is clearly and finely executed. We feel the combination of the two portraits draw the viewer in, demanding a closer look. Overall, this label sets a high standard in concept and execution and is a fine example of South Australian design.

2. Chaffey Bros. Wine Co. Pax Aeterna
– Designer: In-house design featuring art by Leah Grant

3. Golden Child Wines Beach Bum Rose
– Designer: Brady&Co

JUDGES
Andrew Downer
Freelance creative

Shane Keane
Chartman – AGDA SA

David Knight
Editor – The Adelaide Review

Tamrah Petruzzelli
Brand, Marketing & Advertising Manager – The Adelaide Review, Hot 100 Wines

Mark Reginato
Connect Vines – Purveyor Man of Spirit – Inventor

Sabas Renteria
Design Director – Opinion Media

Peter White
International Sales Director – Multi-Color