Wine Packaging: Shrink Sleeves, Pressure Sensitive Labels, Foil Capsules, And More
The wine industry is adapting.
So should your packaging.
Whether you’re a brand new startup or a legacy brand, the packaging you use for your wine products will play a massive role in it’s overall success.
The goal of this blog will be to discuss the most effective packaging options for the wine industry and guide brands in a selections that will be most advantageous for their product
Let’s start with wine labels.
Pressure Sensitive Labels
The first, and most popular way to label wine products is with pressure-sensitive labels. Pressure sensitive labels, or PSL, adhere to the surface of a wine bottle/can via pressure. Think of them as a more effective and high quality sticker label. Pressure sensitive labels are constructed of paper, film, or foil. They can come in a variety of sizes, styles, colors, and are simple to apply.
Pressure-sensitive labels' prices change based on the label's size, material, printing method, and quantity, among other things. In general though, pressure sensitive tend to be the more cost-efficient option for smaller and simpler labels.
High quality printing, easy and quick application, and classy appearance are all reasons to consider a pressure sensitive label for wine bottles/cans.
The cons to a pressure sensitive label would first be limited canvas. Pressure sensitive labels can naturally only allow for so much label real-estate, which means either a crammed label, or very limited possibilities for artwork/information.
Secondly, pressure sensitive labels are unfortunately designed to adhere permanently to the bottle/can. This means they can’t be removed and reused.
Thirdly, pressure sensitive labels are susceptible to damage from tearing, moisture, and scuffing.
Shrink Sleeves Labels
The other labeling option, one that is slowly gaining more popularity in the wine industry, are shrink sleeves. Shrink sleeves are labels that, when heated, shrink to conform to the exact shape of a wine bottle/can. These labels are produced using digital, rotogravure, or flexographic printing technology and are made of a shrinkable film material like PVC, PETG, or OPS.
Shrink sleeves, unlike the competing pressure sensitive labels, offer massive amounts of label real-estate, which means brands don’t need to worry about cluttering or cramming. There will be plenty of space for artwork, information, brand story, etc.
Shrink sleeves are a cost-efficient option for larger runs.
Because of their reverse printing, shrink sleeves are incredibly tough and not susceptible to any tearing, moisture, or scuffing.
Shrink sleeve labels need heat in order to shrink and take the shape of the bottle. This procedure calls for specialized tools and knowledge. While transitioning to shrink sleeves offers many advantages, it does often require an initial investment.
Foil Capsules
Foil capsules are a form of tamper evidence as well as a barrier for the wine content within. Typically made up of a thin layer of either metal or plastic, foil capsules will cover both cork and neck of the wine bottle.
Foil capsules possess a classy aesthetic, and can be custom to whatever label the wine bottle is using as well. While this can be a pro, it can also backfire as a con if not done properly. The traditional look and feel of a foil capsule might be unappealing to consumers looking for a more modern wine product. Always know your consumers.
Foil capsules are easy to with the proper tools. Ask us about our capsuling services along with any contract sleeving needs.
Foil capsules are not the best solution if a brand is looking for a sustainable solution as the material is usually not biodegradable or easily recyclable.
Tamper Evident Shrink Sleeve Neck Bands
Tamper evident neck bands accomplish the same security and content protection as a foil capsule, but with some added benefits.
Neck bands can be printed with elements such as a logo, flavor description, additional artwork, etc.
Neck bands can also give a more modern look and feel than traditional foil capsules.
Our team encourages brands to also add a perforation so consumers can easily tear and remove neck bands when it’s time to open. Without a perforation, opening can be extremely difficult and frustrating for a consumer.
What NExt?
There are many factors to consider when selecting packaging for wine products.
Tango Packaging wants to help.
Advice in making the initial decision, complimentary samples of each option, and even applying your labels to your bottles/cans in-house with our contract sleeving division, our Tango team is ready and available to help you produce your dream product.
Step 1. Schedule a packaging consultation with one of our packaging experts. We’re happy to help you find what works best for your specific product.
Step 2. We’ll send you complimentary samples of each option.
Step 3. We’ll provide you with a quote.
Schedule your complimentary consultation by filling out our contact form, emailing us at info@tangopackaging.com, or calling (844) 33-TANGO [82646].