What do scotch whiskey, small batch lager and Icelandic vodka have in common? In this case, their labels.

Say what you want about modern advertising. Gone, indeed, are the days of Don and Peggy, and yes, we know you are far too wise to fall for any marketing ploy or ad jingle, but our eye will always linger on the image or the idea that speaks to us most, even more so in the liquor aisle. So admit it, you’ve purchased a bottle of wine based on the label alone, right?

Brands like Hendrick’s and Bulleit Bourbon have stood out (noticeably) in the market by embracing the past with traditional designs, and in a sea of frosty flavored vodkas and bedazzled tequila, subtlety goes a long way; the George Dickel begins to shine a little brighter and the Canadian Club seems to look more reliable. But as I stood there with a basket in-hand and an itchy trigger finger, I noticed that certain brands in particular were familiar, even louder than the rest. Turns out the majority of the standouts were designed by Stranger & Stranger.

Stranger & Stranger is a packaging design and branding company specializing in alcoholic drinks, from the playful labels of Spice Tree Scotch Whisky and Rialto Lager to the traditionally tasteful design of Cable Car Lager and Reyka vodka.

A creative agency specializing in nothing but beer, wine, cordials and spirits?  Sugarberry sent Peggy a ham in a can. Imagine the souvenir room at Stranger & Stranger.

Posted at 11:34am and tagged with: Design, Mad Men, Stranger and Stranger, James,.