INTRODUCTION:
On 8 May 1945, Winston Churchill stood on a Whitehall balcony and addressed the excited crowd below. “In all our long history,” he said, “we have never seen a greater day than this.” Churchill had fought extreme fascism and won – the day was his. 70 years later, he is still widely regarded as one of the greatest Britons of all time. His prowess is not just cemented in his political achievements but also in his truly inspirational character, eloquence, wit and style. His force of will, unwavering self belief and creative thinking secured his name in history and his influence still reverberates across many industries today.
A FINE FRIENDSHIP:
Sir Winston Churchill was Pol Roger’s most illustrious devotee and customer. Churchill’s relationship with the Pol Roger family dates back to 1945, although he had been a loyal customer as far back as 1908. At a luncheon in Paris given by the British Ambassador to France two months after the end of the War, Churchill met the charming and captivating Odette Pol-Roger and so began a friendship which lasted until Sir Winston’s death in 1965. Pol Roger was not just any champagne to Churchill, it was the drink that embodied the style and spirit with which he lived by: robust, mature and long-lived.
THE BRIEF:
2024 marks 150 years since Churchill’s birth and 175 Years of Champagne Pol Roger. To celebrate this historic year, we would like you to design a sustainable solution for the Pol Roger Brut Vintage gift packaging that embodies this remarkable friendship
Measurements of the Champagne Bottle are: 8.5cm width x 32cm height, Circumference 28.5cm @ widest part
INSIGHT:
Churchill’s brilliance was in his ability to approach a multitude of tasks with interest and enthusiasm. From journalism to bricklaying, art to orating. Does your design embody the rich breadth of interest and excitement that surrounded Churchill’s life and endeavours? Does it breathe new sustainable life into the commemoration of such a vibrant character in a way that is modern and insightful with a nod to the past and a look to the present?
COMMUNICATION:
‘If you have an important point to make, don’t try to be subtle or clever. Use a pile driver. Hit the point once. Then come back and hit it again. Then hit it a third time – a tremendous whack.’ Churchill commanded attention, spoke with authority, was always forward thinking and left his audiences in no doubt of his point. Is your design clear and easy to understand? Is it able to communicate its sustainable message directly and with force? Think about the compatibility — materiality, potential environmental and/or ecological impact.
COMMERCIAL APPEAL:
As well as paying tribute to one of the great leaders of our time, your design must also hold commercial value. Pol Roger’s strong brand heritage can be utilised to increase interest. Does it appeal to a wider audience? How can your design cater to the current Pol Roger customer as well as generate new interest?
Consider drawing elements like a Churchill cigar, the Pol Roger crest, or even a visual representation of their friendship, like two hands shaking or a toast with champagne glasses. For the packaging design, you can incorporate these elements along with symbols of sustainability, such as leaves, vines, or recycling arrows, to showcase the eco-friendly aspect.
The traditional colors for Pol Roger
Champagne brand are white and gold. These colors exude elegance and sophistication, so incorporating them into your design can add a touch of tradition and authenticity.
Down below that’s the style I want the elements drawn in a messy hand drawn illustrative style.
