Brand refresh for a unique and passionate Hampshire gin distillery

Winchester Distillery is a multi-award-winning gin maker based in the heart of rural Hampshire. They have a particular and signature process of gin making that draws on the natural and cultural conditions of their surroundings, be that the chalk streams in the nearby fields or the local suppliers that add their contribution to the process. Having enjoyed great success working with Valiant on the Twisted Nose gin branding and bottle design, they asked us to rebrand the overall distillery – and produce a distinctive but unified design for all of their “house” spirits in the process. As a team they have an immense pride around their heritage and work ethic, so it was important that we considered both these things during the rebranding, depicting and upholding these values symbolically.

Where better to begin for logo ideas than the glorious Winchester Cathedral, steeped in history and cultural significance and brimming with elegant architectural contours and structures. A simplified outline of a cathedral window formed the starting point of a shape that later evolved into an abstract representation of a rose – an emblem of nobility, loyalty and legend – your average low-key topics!

The sophisticated lines of the logo bring to mind a sense of care and duty, of something fragile yet consistent. The distilling process is a lot like this, a delicate balance of precarious substances that is executed with accuracy and focus.

The final design is refined and impactful, and a well needed repositioning of a distillery with such a lovingly developed end product. It elevates them to their rightful position among their competitors in national and international markets and adds a degree of gravitas to their mission. It was such a pleasure to be part of this journey and use our skills to bring out the best in a client – it’s what keeps us going.