This is the first full year of Wine Label Reviews from which to pick the Best Wine Labels of the year. Designers continued to surprise and inspire with their diverse approach to creating compelling wine packaging. Some of the best wine labels were awarded for more than graphic design. Great brand stories as the basis of product communication were also a factor.
Recognition is given to the top five scoring labels and best in category. The criteria used to evaluate the winners go beyond aesthetics. They include concept, story, engagement, and attention to all elements of the package. And of course, what makes them compelling from a design perspective—images, colour, type, printing processes, and materials.
Each of the wine labels listed below has been previously reviewed in detail. Links to the original posts are included in the descriptions below.
Humante Garnacha
The biggest shock of the year came after the review for Humante Garnacha was posted. The following week, the bold, red-bearded character on the label was replaced by a completely different piece of art. A human form composed of points connected by fine lines made for an astonishing change of image. The black figure with red heart on a white field communicates human connection with arresting simplicity. See post
Tayu
The eyes have it. They speak of culture and authenticity. The story of this wine is deeply rooted and well told on the back label. It is a tale of collaboration and respect for the land and its indigenous people. The conscientious consumer will appreciate the effort. See post
Honoro Vera
This isn’t a new wine or packaging. But it is one of the wines that inspired this site and the use of full bottle rotation videos. The Honoro Vera label wraps almost entirely around the bottle in a series of images that could be a Monty Python sketch. See post
Kindred White Blend
If image is everything, this label is proof. No branding or identification on the front face. Just…a face. Three in fact. This is one in a set for this same wine. Three images that express exclusivity and equality without a word. See post
One Stone Cabernet Sauvignon
It’s a gorgeous label. Beautiful artwork and exquisite finishing. That alone didn’t make it the top wine label this year. The illustration was created by an emerging local artist. Inspired by the brand and its admirable mission. See post
Moira Rosé
Art Deco is making a comeback. The type of the era is stunning and well-exhibited on this rosé bottle. No label required. Why hide the beautiful hue of rosé? See post
Kindred White Blend
The second-best wine label overall is also the best white wine label in 2022. It could have competed for best red. There are three more images on the producer’s red wine that expand the brand message. See post
One Stone Cabernet Sauvignon
Red wine represents the largest category of reviews on the site. Reds inspire the greatest passion in winemakers and it is evident in the attention they give to their packaging. Aesthetically, choosing a winner was difficult. One Stone rises above with a story and purpose in every aspect of its brand that shines in its packaging. See post
In 2021, the sparkling wine category was extremely competitive. It accounted for two of the top five labels and number one overall. Surprisingly, there were too few reviews of sparking wine packaging this year to warrant judgement. Those will be included next year.
These are the best wine labels and package designs reviewed in 2022. I hope you explored the links for a deeper dive into the analysis behind their inclusion. There are many other superb examples on the site. Have a look. Follow on Instagram and Twitter, and bookmark the site for more reviews in the new year.
See also The Best Wine Labels 2021