WINE SPECTATOR
"PAssport to value"
EDITORIAL BRIEF
ABOUT Wine Spectator:
Wine Spectator is an American lifestyle magazine that focuses on wine, wine culture and wine ratings. It is the flagship publication of M. Shanken Communications, which also publishes Cigar Aficionado, Whisky Advocate, Market Watch, Shanken News Daily and Shanken’s Impact Newsletter.
OBjective:
Create a full-page illustration for Wine Spectator to accompany an article titled “Passport to Value.” The piece explores the best-value wines from around the world, highlighting the diversity, quality, and stories behind global wine regions.
SKETCH & Color Rough:
"SUitcase"
In a hurry to an airport gate, a hand pulls along a heavy suitcase decorated with a variety of international wines.
The suitcase is highlighted with stickers that hint at travel themes: passport stamps, a compass, and a postage stamp.
The luggage tag whips towards us in the air as the bag is pulled, also acting as the placeholder for the title “Value.” The word “value” gives the luggage tag the possibility of also being interpreted as an eye-catching price tag.
This concept was not chosen for the final illustration.
Final Illustration & Mockup
SKETCH & Color Rough:
"POST TO VALUE"
Stamps are used as the compositional and narrative device in this concept. They are windows into visions of travel and wine themes; they show flags from Chile, Italy, and France.
Finally, they frame a couple, masked across the middle row of windows, enjoying a sunset glass together as might the windows of a cruise ship.
The small story is framed by the title in large clear text. I am considering making the lettering feel ‘stamped’ instead of just stacked on top, and would like to simplify the characters. I would also like to change the flags into stronger images.
