Skull designs are popular. They are used on an incredible number of products including wine. Popularity peaks at Halloween and the Day of the Dead. The latter inspires ornate and detailed designs, often in brilliant colours. Colour may not be the most prominent aspect of the Vinyes Ocults Malbec label but it is used effectively.
If you’re into Day of the Dead skulls this label will command your attention. Appreciation grows as you take a closer look. The details, created using a variety of finishes are exquisite. Flowers are typical in this skull design style. Here they are created with little pops of gold, blue and red foil. But it is most likely the haunting eyes that will capture your gaze. Encircled in rings of gold and silver, they dominate the design. In contrast, the nose and teeth are near invisible, finished in matte black against the rich black colour of the label.
The name of the wine is presented in an odd way that might be lost in translation. I’m not sure why ocults is spelled with one c and is pluralized, or the significance of the o being overlapped.
The winemaker’s notes are also curious. “Unknown and magical things happen at our Occult Vineyard. This is where our wine was born to die, for love, in your mouth. Longing for your enjoyment and completing its cycle of life for your drinking pleasure.” Day of the Dead is a celebration of departed souls without remorse. Perhaps that’s the sentiment here.
James Suckling gives this wine a 93 point score. Not sure I’d go that high but the wine is dark in colour with plum and blueberry flavours. Quite enjoyable.
There may be a few questionable aspects of this packaging but few matter when the primary image is so strong. If anything it could be a bit larger.
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