The packaging of alcohol is an essential factor that determines the success of a product. Whether distilled spirits or red wine, the packaging must be appealing, functional, and in line with the product’s image. Distilled spirits and red wine, while both alcoholic beverages, have different characteristics and target audiences, making their packaging requirements distinct. In this article, we will explore the differences in packaging between distilled spirits and red wine and the reasons behind these differences.
Distilled spirits packaging
It is commonly perceived that customers who purchase distilled spirits are typically more mature than those who purchase other alcoholic beverages such as beer or wine. This is because distilled spirits, such as whiskey, rum, gin, and brandy, are often associated with sophistication and are typically consumed by older and more experienced drinkers. Additionally, distilled spirits are often considered a more premium product, attracting a more mature demographic willing to pay more for a premium experience.
Therefore distilled spirits are typically packaged in glass bottles and are aimed at a more mature and upscale market. Distilled spirits’ packaging emphasizes the product’s quality and reinforces its premium status. The design and materials used for distilled spirits packaging are often sophisticated, with a minimalist or classic look. The aim is to create an elegant and timeless appearance that will appeal to the target market.
Red wine packaging
On the other hand, red wine packaging is typically more colorful and imaginative. This is because red wine typically aims at a younger, more open market. Red wine packaging often features bright colors, bold designs, and creative labeling. The focus is on catching the consumer’s eye and creating a fun and relaxed image. Red wine packaging is often designed to be more approachable and accessible than distilled spirits packaging.
Protecting the product
One of the most important considerations in packaging design is the protection of the product. Both distilled spirits and red wine must be packaged in materials that will keep them fresh and free from contamination. For distilled spirits, glass bottles are the preferred choice. Glass is an excellent material for preserving the quality of the product and is also easy to recycle.
Because Australian, South African, and other new world red wines are relatively cheap, many manufacturers will use flexitanks instead of glass bottles for transport. When the wine arrives at the place of sale, it will be distributed and bottled. The flexitank is like a big plastic bag. It holds the equivalent of more than 30,000 red wine bottles. This significantly reduces the weight of the glass bottles and decreases shipping costs.
Convenience and portability
Convenience and portability are also important factors in packaging design. It’s important to package distilled spirits and red wines, so they’re easy to transport and sell. Consumers usually buy distilled spirits in small quantities, and their unit price is relatively high. Therefore, they’re typically packaged in single glass bottles to make them easier to carry, and more in line with sales scenarios. Wine is usually bought in bulk, so wine packaging will take advantage of corrugated boxes, wooden boxes, and other space-saving and cost-saving solutions, but high-value wines will choose gift boxes.
Cost-Effectiveness
Cost-effectiveness is also a big factor in packaging design. Distilled spirits and red wines should showcase their high-end luxury brand image as much as possible. Packaging costs need to be balanced with protection, convenience, and aesthetics. As distilled spirits are relatively expensive per unit, using quality materials and intricate packaging makes sense. However, wine is more geared towards mass consumption, so I’d be more open to specifying packaging based on product positioning, like corrugated boxes for cheap table wine, and rigid boxes for high-end Tibetan wine.
In conclusion, distilled spirits and red wine packaging is distinct and tailored to meet the target market’s needs. From protection and preservation of the product to cost-effectiveness, both types of packaging have their unique requirements and challenges. Understanding the differences between distilled spirits and red wine packaging can help you make informed decisions when packaging your products.
