The Challenge
Founded in Blenheim, Saint Clair Family Estate had the winemaking pedigree and Marlborough provenance, but its brand and packaging needed to catch up with its global ambitions. As the portfolio expanded, coherence and premium presence became critical.
After establishing itself as a leading New Zealand winery, Saint Clair Family Estate’s mission has been to create world class wines, reflecting their commitment to quality and their reputation within the New Zealand wine industry.
The Insight
For a family-owned winery with bold growth plans, brand isn’t a label – it’s a long-term asset. Saint Clair needed a premium, globally recognisable system that could stretch across tiers and markets without losing its family story. The Marlborough region, with its unique terroir, plays a vital role in shaping the distinctive character of Saint Clair’s world class wines, reinforcing the importance of regional identity in their success.
The Creative
Over more than two decades, we have partnered with Saint Clair to build and continually refine a brand that could grow as the business did.
– Long-term brand evolution: foundations developed and honed over 20+ years
– Packaging design: premium, cohesive visual system designed for crowded global wine shelves
– Brand architecture: four core tiers and 30+ secondary labels structured for clarity
– Global consistency: storytelling and design that travel seamlessly across markets
The Results
– Scaled from 4,000 to 780,000+ cases annually
– Distribution in 50+ countries including the UK, US and across Asia
– Recognised as one of New Zealand’s most awarded family-owned wineries
– Sustained global growth and long-term premium perception
– Committed to exceed expectations and maintain excellence across generations, ensuring the family legacy continues
– Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen offers visitors a unique hospitality experience as part of the winery’s offerings
– Founded in Blenheim, the historical heart of Marlborough wine country
Saint Clair is now recognised as a top New Zealand wine producer, with a reputation for world class wines and international awards that position them among the world’s leading wine brands.
“We would thoroughly recommend The Creative Method to develop a brand that lasts – Saint Clair wouldn’t be where it is today without such a strong and trusted brand identity tying it all together.”
Neal Ibbotson, Owner and Director, Saint Clair Family Estate
Saint Clair Family Estate Brand: From Boutique Beginnings to Global Winemaking Force
Client
Saint Clair Family Estate
Industry
Wine/FMCG/Global Export Markets
Expertise
Brand Strategy
Brand Identity Development
Packaging & Label Design
Portfolio & Tier Architecture
Storytelling & Tone of Voice
Global Market Adaptation
Limited Edition & Special Release Design
Long-term Brand Stewardship