The Brief.
In collaboration with Charlotte-based home-brewers, we designed this bottle and packaging concept for a limited-edition amber ale, brewed with chinook hops and fresh cranberries. The challenge was to visually capture the beer’s unique balance of bitter and sweet while telling a story that would intrigue beer lovers and adventurous spirits alike.
Design Decisions.
To bring the beer’s personality to life, we leaned into storytelling as the cornerstone of the design. We created a duo of illustrated characters—Nook and Cranny—who symbolize the perfect balance of flavors. The duo set in a cabin scene, enjoying an ice-cold beer on the porch, became the focal point for the design. A series of hand-drawn badges, paired with playful typography and rustic textures, further reinforced the beer’s adventurous spirit. The packaging invites consumers to “get lost and make it back to tell the story,” aligning perfectly with the ethos of exploration. The result is a vibrant, character-driven label that sparks curiosity and connects emotionally with craft beer enthusiasts.
