From Alentejo to the Depths

Silent. Untouched. Evolving in its own time.

THE CHALLANGE
Torre de Palma entrusted us with a distinctive challenge: to develop a packaging solution for two identical bottles of Arinto & Alvarinho — differentiated by a single, defining element.

One bottle was aged beneath the waters of Atlantic Ocean, shaped by the precise conditions of underwater maturation: constant temperature, total darkness, controlled pressure, and the subtle movement of natural currents. The other followed the traditional discipline of cellar ageing, which we have designed the packaging as well.

Our strategic response was to design a packaging system that elevated this contrast into a compelling narrative — honouring heritage while positioning underwater ageing as a mark of innovation and rarity.

The result is not simply packaging, but a controlled sensory experience. A physical expression of depth, precision, and distinction.

THE SOLUTION
We developed a wooden case, specially treated to evoke the tones and textures of weathered maritime timber, with a finish that subtly recalls the underwater environment.

The box features a frontal window with printed detailing that recreates the atmosphere of the seabed — marine fauna and flora elements, deep blue tonalities, and plays of light that simulate sunlight filtering through water.

Beyond protection, the packaging was conceived as a narrative device — transforming the act of unveiling the bottle into an immersive experience.
A physical translation of depth, rarity, and controlled maturation, designed to elevate perceived value and reinforce the singularity of the underwater ageing process.

DISTINCTIVE ELEMENTS
Weathered Wood: Specially treated material designed to replicate the aged appearance and characteristic tones of timber exposed to a maritime environment;

Nautical Rope Handle: A handcrafted handle made exclusively from rope that echoes the traditional cords once used by fishermen to haul nets aboard their boats, reinforcing the maritime narrative and its connection to fishing heritage;

Underwater Visual Narrative: Printed detailing that transports the viewer into the marine ecosystem of Alqueva;

Minimalist Design: Focused on the iconic Torre de Palma symbol and clean typography, reflecting the architecture and understated elegance of the boutique winery;

Conceptual Duality: The coexistence of both bottles — traditional and underwater-aged — within a single packaging system celebrates innovation while maintaining deep respect for tradition;

Textures and Patterns: Subtle details inspired by Roman geometric motifs, establishing a connection to the historical heritage of the region;

CREATIVE CONCEPT
Growing on the surface, valuing in the depths.

This packaging tells the story of a wine that transcends the boundaries of the traditional cellar, exploring underwater ageing as a new frontier of maturation.

Conceived as a time capsule, the case preserves more than two bottles — it safeguards two philosophies of winemaking: ancestral wisdom and contemporary experimentation.

Released as a limited edition of 2,900 individually numbered sets, each package contains one underwater-aged bottle and one traditionally aged counterpart — creating a rare, dual tasting experience that contrasts depth with discipline, innovation with heritage.

ABOUT THE BRAND
Torre de Palma is a Boutique Winery and Wine Hotel located in Monforte, in the heart of Alto Alentejo, distinguished by its production of signature wines in harmony with nature and by its distinctive architecture inspired by the region’s Roman heritage.