Just like we associate pirates with rum and PBR with Brooklyn hipsters, when we think of whiskey we think of the tortured life of a writer, sitting by a crackling fireplace and smoking a pipe. Of course, these are all stereotypes, but now some of our favorite authors grace the label of the very spirit we associate them with. Sevenfive Creative designed the branding and packaging for The Authors’ Series, an exclusive range of Single Malt Whiskies created by the distinguished blenders and bottlers, Hunter Laing and Company Ltd.
The whiskies are all specially selected, high-end single malts. The authors featured on each bottle lived a life and career that somehow relates to the distinct taste and character of each unique spirit. The first authors included in this series were Charles Dickens, Robert Lewis Stevenson, Rudyard Kipling, and Edgar Allan Poe. By putting a face to each type of whiskey, the flavor can inform the consumer further on the author’s life, and the author’s life can further inform the consumer on the delicate notes they will taste in the spirit.
“The Authors’ Series packaging gave us the opportunity to add real character to these limited edition bottles. The label design and typography was inspired by early Victorian photography portraits. Coupled with the traditional monogram to create the feel of authentic heritage. The design also had to be flexible to accommodate future print runs – each batch will be new series of authors.”
The sophisticated labels each have detailed black and white portraits of each writer. The bottles appear classic and refined, but also seem to convey an air of experience and a life well lived. With a label that seems slightly yellowed and an almost handwritten cursive font on the back, the bottles seem to tell their own stories.
“Each bottle is individually dipped in wax and then sealed with the monogram design. Then packaged in a brown leather presentation box finished with a gold metallic foil to bring a touch of luxury to this limited edition malt.”
Designer: Craig Bickett
Printer: Aro Print
Designed by Sevenfive Creative
Client: Hunter Laing and Company Ltd.
Country: Scotland
City: Glasgow
