Taste of time

  • Packaging,
Industry:
BEVERAGE PRODUCTION
Client:
MARASKA
Overview:

The "Taste of Time" product line was crafted to celebrate the dedication and patience required to create exceptional liqueurs and spirits.
Representing the time it takes to grow the finest ingredients, carefully craft the drinks, and age them to perfection, this line showcases the best of authentic Croatian beverages.

Targeted at men and women aged 35-55, the line caters to hedonists who savor premium experiences, appreciate local authentic drinks, and value quality over cost.
With its rich flavor profiles derived from locally sourced ingredients, "Taste of Time" offers a refined, premium drinking experience.

CHALLENGE:

This project was taken over after the originally hired agency failed to deliver a functional design. Their use of transparent labels caused visible air bubbles on darker materials, rendering the design unsuitable for production. Additionally, the client was under a tight timeline, as the original deadline was fast approaching.

To stand out in a competitive market, the design had to break away from traditional industry norms, such as rectangular labels, while meeting the client's goal of establishing a distinct identity in the premium drinks segment.

SOLUTION:

The redesigned packaging embraced the theme of nature and time with innovative elements:

  • Label design: The oval label shape mimicked a tree stump, symbolizing the natural origins of the product and the years of experience behind its creation, as represented by tree rings.
  • Tactile finish: A combination of matte-coated paper, glossy varnish, and gold foil added a luxurious, tactile quality to the packaging.
  • Color palette: Muted tones emphasized elegance, aligning with the premium positioning of the product.

The thoughtful design not only resolved the technical issues of the previous design but also created a striking visual identity that elevated the brand. By rejecting industry norms, such as rectangular labels, and embracing organic shapes and premium materials, the product stood out on shelves and appealed to its target audience.

THE PROCESS:

The tight timeline required an agile yet thorough approach to ensure the final design met both the client’s and the market’s expectations. Here's how the process unfolded:

Client Brief and Research: We began by diving into the client's vision and leveraging their provided data, which highlighted the product’s authentic origins and premium qualities. Given the short timeline, we relied on competitor research and the differentiation points of the product to establish a clear design direction.

Concept Development: With the product's story and market position in mind, we created several initial design concepts. Each concept focused on capturing the essence of time and nature while incorporating elements to elevate the premium feel of the brand. Key differentiators included the tree-stump-inspired label shape and the use of muted tones to create a sophisticated, organic look.

Collaborative Refinement: The design process involved close collaboration with the client. Regular feedback sessions allowed us to refine the chosen concept, ensuring it aligned with the client’s goals of standing out in the premium market and addressing technical challenges from the previous design.

Printer Collaboration: To ensure the design translated seamlessly to the final product, we worked closely with printers. They played a critical role in bringing our vision to life, helping us navigate the technical possibilities of varnish, foil, and label application techniques. This partnership was crucial in avoiding issues like air bubbles and achieving the desired premium tactile finish.

Adaptation Across Contexts: Recognizing that alcohol branding faces promotional restrictions, we developed a cohesive design system. Elements from the label, including the "Taste of Time" logo and visual motifs, were repurposed for digital and print marketing materials. This ensured brand consistency and extended the design’s impact beyond the bottle itself.

Final Delivery: After final approvals, we delivered the production-ready designs within the client’s timeline, ensuring a smooth transition from concept to production. The client’s trust in our expertise allowed us to address their initial concerns and exceed their expectations.


The client was thrilled with the final design, particularly after their prior experience with another agency. Despite the challenges, the project was delivered on time, enabling the product to enter the premium market segment successfully.

Since its launch, "Taste of Time" has gained entry into high-end bars and restaurants, receiving positive feedback for its distinct identity and premium appeal. The design’s success has strengthened the product’s positioning and provided the client with a standout brand that resonates with its target audience.


This case study highlights our commitment to turning challenges into opportunities and creating designs that leave a lasting impression. If you're looking for a partner to help you create a packaging that tells your brand's story, differentiates your product, and resonates with your audience contact us today to discover how we can transform your product into a market standout!

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