As most businesses know, a substantial chunk of creating an enterprise revolves around advertising. A business, no matter what venture it is involved in, should realize the importance of having an aesthetically pleasing and distinct label. The type of wine and beer label that defines the business itself is one that constitutes its standards by setting it apart from the rest.
A label that is simple, recognizable, yet is demonstrative of the craftsmanship and time presupposed in the product’s creation. Label printing design should reflect quality, to survive in the business world, grabbing the attention of the consumer is half the undertaking.
A Booming Industry
In terms of competition, the beer and wine industries are difficult sectors to integrate into. From the corporately run to the private and locally operated vineyard and/or brewery, there is a sizable amount of competition on all rungs of the alcohol industry. In terms of mere observation, there seems to be a large convergence toward local and sustainable microbreweries and winemakers. A glance at the supermarket shelf reveals an increase in products from small independent breweries and wineries, which are now popping up in practically every state. Each of these breweries/wineries shares a variety of commonalities in terms of process, size, and business model. The most obvious of these is the companies’ labels.
Getting Out There
Since the vast majority of breweries and wineries have not established themselves on a wholly domestic and/or international level (i.e., Anheuser Busch and Livingston Cellars), up-and-coming breweries and wineries must devote significant time and effort to the conception of their label printing design. Getting one’s beer or wine product not only to be seen on the market shelf but also to be purchased requires some significant work.
According to Columbine Label’s blog on label tips: “While price is sometimes a consideration, often, the decision to buy or not to buy is an emotional one.” Therefore, developing a label that pinpoints the ‘feeling’ of the buyer is important to try to emulate.
Some Tips and Ideas for Label Design
Choosing a label design for wine and beer can be a stressful process. Deciding what exactly to place on a label can be tiresome as well as frustrating. So, when developing a label, thinking of the size, color, consistency, conveyed message (word choice), and overall format is a necessity. Avoid complications; keep the label simple and straight to the point. Pick colors that are not overwhelming, yet allow one’s product to stand out, to ‘pop’ off the shelf. Try to think of something (be it visual or written) that defines one’s beer or wine, or the company’s credo.
Highlight Your Brand Story
Today’s consumers want more than just a drink — they want a story. Incorporating your brand’s history, mission, or even vineyard or brewery location into your wine and beer label design can create an instant connection. Whether it’s a hand-drawn vineyard sketch or a tagline that speaks to your values, storytelling on labels builds recognition and loyalty.
Experiment With Finishes and Materials
Beyond colors and typography, finishes like foil stamping, embossing, and spot UV coating can make your product stand out. For wine label printing in particular, textured papers and specialty inks add a premium feel that consumers associate with quality. Beer labels can benefit from waterproof or durable synthetic materials that hold up in coolers and ice buckets.
Don’t Overlook Compliance
While creativity is key, wineries and breweries must also meet industry regulations. Wine label printing requires including details such as alcohol content, government warnings, and producer information. Beer labels may also require barcodes, recycling information, or state-specific disclosures. Balancing compliance with strong design ensures your product is both legally sound and shelf-ready.
Be consistent. If one’s business has decided on an appropriate beer or wine label, stick with it. Since it’s a timely process to finally get a product recognized, consistency in terms of label design is extremely important.
For more comprehensive information regarding label design ideas and tips visit our blog. This Denver-based labels printing company offers custom labels, including wine label printing, along with packaging solutions. Contact Columbine for a free quote today.