Though most wine labels show utmost artistic diversity, one could criticize the redundancy of their subject. There’s often a frog, a horse, a pig or an eagle. Others feature a château, a domain or an abandoned ruin of a stone shelter in the middle of a vineyard. Some promote a more traditional style with a gothic font type, and let’s not forget the emblematic shields or coat of arms of old wine domains. So if you’ve ever felt like wine labels are all the same, you now have proof that your hunch is right, thanks to these 10 compilations.
THE CHÂTEAUX • Some of the most renowned wines feature a château on their label, and their name. Château means a higher grade level of the wine but its usage is carefully regulated in all the countries of the world. The prestigious term is only allowed in France under strict rules. Multiple requests have been attempted by various winemakers in vain. However, some American winemakers have used it in spite of the rule and benefited from quite the caché of the highest possible wine grade – “Sacrilège!”
SEE ALSO: Will American Wines Be Able to Use The “Château” Mention? & No “Château” For American Winemakers.
THE GERMANIC & GOTHIC FONT TYPE • Just as the château mention, gothic letters represent vintage and indicate a wine that had time to rest and age. This style is the opposite of modern and as a result, it may not appeal to younger wine drinkers but it sure works with a lot of the wine aficionado and experts. But don’t be fooled! In some cases, this is just a ruse to get you to buy the wine ; )
THE COAT OF ARMS • Quite effective… A coat of arms shows authority, a certain level of hierarchy and discipline. It conveys a sense of confidence and aspiration that went into the making of the wine. It symbolizes a strong and respected tradition that descends from multiple generations of proud and united winemakers.
THE GRAPES & VINES • Wine is made of grapes from clusters that grow on vines… so why not use grapes and vines on our label? Why didn’t I think of that sooner? So simple!
THE BLACK AND WHITE • Is this a reference to a simpler time, a deliberate artistic choice, or just a way to save a buck or two on printing cost? Whatever it is, it sure separates them from the rest of the labels.
THE ARTSY FARTSY • In this category, anything goes! The winemaking artistry of the winemaker transpires to the wine label, and in some cases starting to tell a story to the wine shopper. This is an efficient way to convey a style, in addition to using the more conventional wine notes.
THE MONOGRAMS • This is a very emblematic look that features a single letter and/or number. Much quicker than having to read a full word, those letters and numbers are designed to catch the wine shopper’s attention.
THE ANIMALS & INSECTS • With all the animal lovers out there, winemakers really can’t go wrong with using a rabbit or a fox on their wine label… just not together. Be to check one of our most popular articles labeled Wine With An Animal In The Name.
RED & BLACK • Red is the color of passion. Red is energizing! It excites the emotions and motivates us to take action. Like… buying more wine?
THE MINIMALISTS • Less is more, people!
For more fun and excitement, consider these related Wine Ponder articles:
• Wine With An Animal In The Name
• Wine With An Color In The Name
• Creative and Unusual Wine Labels
• Funny and Unusual Wine Names
• Understanding a Wine Label
• Fun Wine Labels
Labels are definitely eye catching. Wonder how many frogs are on labels?
Congrats on 100th article – I can’t believe it! Way to go. Cheers. We should drink to that!!!
Thanks for your good cheer to our 100th article! And for your continuing support!
Deborah, I’m actually writing another article in which I list all the repeats of various animals and insects in wine names… So far, the fox is in the lead ; )
Wow I never noticed this until now. Great post.
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Great article! I was driven away from chateaux to animals but never really put it in perspective. Thanks.
Thanks Karl!