Waterdog from Portugal. Sure. Portuguese Waterdogs are a popular breed and a natural fit for a wine from this country. They’re cute. One even found its way into the Whitehouse for two terms. Why not put one on a wine label? The challenge is how.
In creating wine labels there is a lot of experimentation that happens in the design process. There are many different ways to express any concept. Visuals and type are considered at various sizes and approximations. Designs are revised many times before heading to the printers. In the case of Waterdog wine, it seems to be a continuous journey.
The original version of the label depicts the dog in a small wooden boat on the water. The one shown here is evolved from that with the dog and boat filling more of the frame. The bottle I have features just the head of the dog isolated on a bland beige background. If you know Portuguese Waterdogs, you know one of their distinguishing features is a white patch on their chest. Why would that get cropped off? Well, it seems that was a part of a previously released label.
I want more from this label. These dogs are adorable and that doesn’t come through in this photo. Yes, it’s a black dog which doesn’t allow for much contrast but the lighting is poor. You can’t even see its eyes. I also want a more authentic story. This shouldn’t be a random dog it should be one that’s identifiable with the winery.
Is there anything I love about this packaging? Yes, but it isn’t the label. It’s the capsule. The collar graphic with a tag marked “RED BLEND” is brilliant.
Of the three versions of this label above, which do you think is best? Let me know in the comments below.
