Gradient Vodka Soda Uses A Duo-Tone Dot-Matrix To Turn Each Can Into A Single Element Of A Greater Gradient

Design agency Trill is behind the packaging design for Gradient, a brand that's helping us all feel a little better after a night of drinking. Because each can has less alcohol than the next, Trill thoughtfully tapped into the brand's name to create a gradient design within the packaging itself. In order of percentage of ABV, each can gets a little lighter, visually thoughtfully showcasing the potency. Plus, the yellow and pink color combination is entirely playful, proving that just because your drinks are getting lighter doesn't mean that the fun has to stop.

Gradient's Cans Fade So You Don't Hands up if you’ve ever thought “gee, I wish I didn’t have that last drink last night.” Us too. Thankfully, a solution to this age-old problem landed on Canadian shelves in fall of 2021. Gradient Vodka Soda is the world’s first “gradually reducing vodka soda” packaging together multiple ABVs in one pack: 8%, 7%, 6%, 4%, 3%, 2%. So, how does this help you keep your night (and next morning) bright?

Well, first, a little science. You see, the human body can process up to one 4% drink per hour. Anything above that floats around in your system where it brings about the good (and if you have too much, the bad) vibes. Therefore, the key to a bright night is to fill your good vibes tank, without OVER filling it. That’s where Gradient comes in. With their “start strong, last long” approach, it’s easy to drink less and less and less through the night – while keeping your buzz consistent.

To package this unique concept creative agency Trill used a duo-tone dot-matrix to turn each can into a single element of a greater gradient. “We wanted to create a design system that was as vibrant as the taste. It was important to consider both flavour cues as well as making the strength of each can readily apparent once it was separated from the pack" says Mark Rowe, Design Director at Trill. The dots of the cans match up perfectly with the one-of-a-kind, six-in-a-line box that subtly nudges you to start at the strong end and work your way back. But of course, everyone is different, so feel free to crack open that perf and ramp it down in any order you like.