Responses by RitaRivotti.

Background: The goal of the project was to develop a visual identity that reflects the historical and artisanal legacy of Quinta da Vinha dos Padres, a wine label created by the estate Vila Maria in Reguengo, Portalegre, Portugal. The brand pays tribute to the winemaking tradition initiated by the Jesuits in the 16th century, preserved over time through ancestral manual techniques, with wines crafted from century-old vines and fermented in clay amphorae. Its target audience consists of wine lovers who value authenticity, storytelling and cultural heritage.

Design thinking: The thinking behind the solution was to create a visual narrative that would reflect the project’s historical depth—a rich and fascinating legacy spanning over five centuries—while also paying tribute to the regional character and premium artisanal essence that define it. We chose a sober, elegant visual language, reinforced by the use of textured paper to convey authenticity and care. For the Vila Maria logo, we drew inspiration from the architecture of the estate’s house, incorporating distinctive elements of the place into the brand’s identity.

Challenges: Finding a way to convey, simultaneously, a sense of tradition and modernity, and craftsmanship and premium quality. In essence, it was about harmonizing contrasting values within the limited canvas of a wine bottle—a delicate balance that demanded expertise and countless hours of trial and refinement.

Favorite details: We’re proud of how the design expresses five centuries of history with authenticity while respecting the local identity and artisanal essence of the project.

Specific project demands: Our deep knowledge of the producer, the estate and its essence made the process smoother. We were fully aligned with its vision for the wine’s image, and no adjustments were needed to the initial proposal. The client trusted our more than 20 years of expertise in the wine sector, which made the collaboration seamless and effective.

Visual influences: The design was strongly influenced by both classic graphic design and local craftsmanship. Vila Maria’s logo, in particular, was inspired by the decorative elements of the estate’s main house—a kind of rustic chalet adorned with clay tile patterns that give the space a distinct character. Even the neck label revisits this inspiration, echoing the aesthetic of the main logo and incorporating details reminiscent of traditional Portuguese craftwork. The rest of the label design revolves around a classical graphic style, which is also reflected in some of the typographic choices and layout elements.