Contemplating the Back Label
CONTEMPLATING THE OTHER SIDE OF THE BOTTLE
NOTE: This excerpt has been reproduced from a newsletter that was originally published in September 2026. To read the original newsletter in full, click the link at the bottom of this page.
Dear Reader,
I’ve been spending a lot of time lately examining wine bottle labels. A seemingly strange pastime? Maybe. But the reason is that I’m absolutely fascinated by what some winemakers and producers choose to adorn their labels with.
You see,some information on a wine label is mandatory and highly regulated. Depending on where the wine is sold and/or produced, this may include its alcohol by volume (ABV), geographical origin, producer or bottler information, and bottle volume (typically 750 mL for a standard bottle).
Then, there are the bits of information that are required that vary by region of origin. For example, protected designations of origin carry their own rules for what can and cannot be said.
But this is not what I’m speaking of here. My interest lies in the real estate on the back label that is available for a producer to do with as they please. The area where they typically tell their story, or provide information that presumably compels the customer to build a connection to the product in the bottle.
Herein lies the fascination. There is such a wide array of practices in this arena. Many producers choose to say something about the wine. They provide a tasting note, or speak of the land that it comes from. Others speak of the family or the history behind the wine or the estate. This is the typical direction I see. But not everyone wants to be typical.
Take a look at the two labels below. I drank both wines this week. Their approaches are strikingly different - from each other and from the typical back label. I’d love to know which one you prefer—and why.
Consider it a little market research on my part. I’ve deliberately left out the names of the wines and producers so that this doesn't influence your choice (though if you look closely enough, you’ll likely be able to figure it out for both :-)).
What do you think?
As the summer draws to a close, I hope you are enjoying the final days of warm temperatures. Keep that wine glass full and the laughter rolling.
Cheers! xx
