Les Crays 2018 – A Study in Material, Form and Fine Detail
Inspiration and Concept Behind the Zitara Crémant Label Design
When I started developing the Zitara Crémant Label Design, my intention was to capture the refined character of a Crémant de Bourgogne while letting the materials and finishes speak louder than any complex graphics. We chose the classic Burgundy sparkling wine bottle but intentionally left it without a capsule. This choice was as much about visual simplicity as it was about reducing environmental impact, saving one more material from the production process.
The main label is a horizontally oriented oval, printed on Jade Raster paper – a stock with a fine microtexture and a gentle opalescent effect. This premium surface was the perfect foundation for the distinctive elements of the Zitara Crémant Label Design. A subtle white decorative frame runs around the edges, stamped with deep debossing to create a recessed relief. This detail only reveals itself fully when the light catches it, giving the label a quiet layer of sophistication.
At the heart of the composition, the Zitara name and crest are stamped in warm copper foil. Multiple embossing techniques give these elements a pronounced 3D structure, allowing them to stand out without overwhelming the design. Beneath the name, the ‘Les Crays 2018’ text is enhanced with raised spot varnish, adding tactile presence and hierarchy to the information.
Premium Materials and Finishing Techniques
This Zitara Crémant Label Design was brought to life by Dagaprint, whose craftsmanship in deep debossing, multi-level embossing, and foil stamping ensured every subtle intention was perfectly realized. For me, it’s a label that reflects both the care of the winemaker and the dedication behind its creation — a design where every decision is visible in the final result.
A Signature of Quality from Four Friends
Positioned high on the bottle’s shoulder, a separate seal label in metallic foil and resin label technology mimics a traditional wax seal. This carries the personal signature of the winemaker behind Four Friends Peter Iliev, acting as a guarantee of quality. This touch gives the Zitara Crémant Label Design an additional layer of authenticity and direct connection to its origin.
The approach here is similar to my previous work for Four Friends on The Copper Pot project — both designs rely on careful balance between refined restraint and technical depth. Each element is purposeful, from the choice of paper to the structure of the emboss and the precision of the die-cut.
Linking Tradition and Modern Label Craftsmanship
The Zitara Crémant Label Design successfully links tradition and modern label craftsmanship by combining classic elements such as the Burgundy sparkling wine bottle and wax seal-inspired metallic foil with advanced finishing techniques like deep debossing and multi-level embossing. This sustainable and premium wine label reflects the heritage of Crémant de Bourgogne while embracing contemporary design trends and environmental responsibility. The balance of material quality, form, and detail ensures Zitara Crémant Label Design stands out in the competitive sparkling wine market as a true symbol of craftsmanship and quality.
Credits:
Client: Four Friends Winery
Design: the Labelmaker
Print: Dagaprint
Photo CGI: Jordan Jelev
