If “Less is more.” defines your style you’ll gush over the elegant simplicity of the Quadrus wine label. It exudes sophistication in its understatement.
The front label is so beautifully…stark. In my experience as a designer, I have encountered very few clients who perceive blank space as other than something to be filled. Over half of the Quadrus label is a blank slate. In a dark slate colour no less. The type pops in metallic copper, enhanced by the textured matte stock. Light plays off the letters as the bottle curves.
Given the brilliance in design restraint there is one decision that perplexes me and its one few would notice. The typeface for QUADRUS is different than that of the rest of the front label type. Look closely at the letters A, R and S. There is a general rule in typography that combining similar type faces of the same family, (serif in this case) should be avoided. Stick with one font or pair to contrast. Serif with sans serif is very successful. It’s not a major fault here. Just surprising.
The capsule repeats the metallic copper of the type without branding or adornment. A crown without jewels or the necessity for them.
The back label is about terroir and tradition. The requisites of the Douro region leave little room to inform. Especially when some information is expressed in three languages. The story of the vineyard and winemaking process are as minimal as the marketing concept of this wine. They are brief and targeted to a knowledgeable and sophisticated consumer.
The wine itself embodies its elegant trimming. Dark, rich and smooth with flavours of black plums, raspberries and a smoky spiciness from oak aging. Based on packaging and quality this is a wine you would expect to pay more for. You’ll definitely want more, not less.
Can you see this wine on your dinner party table? Let me know in the comments below.
