Ryuta Ishikawa drew inspiration from the time-honored Kirinzan brewery. Known for their aged sake, Kirinzan takes pride in their premium rice wine, “Momiji-Kin”, which has been aged for over 20 years. The logotype of this design represents the history and quality of the liquor that has been nurtured in the brewery.
The name of the product, “Momiji-Kin”, translates to golden autumn foliage. This name was chosen to express the dignity of the quality sake. The design features a golden maple leaf set against a black background, symbolizing the beauty of autumn in Japan.
The design was realized using traditional black Japanese paper, which adds a unique brightness to the bottle. This choice of material not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the product but also pays homage to Japanese tradition and craftsmanship.
Despite being priced eight times higher than regular sake, Kirinzan Momiji Kin sold out simultaneously with its release in November 2016. This success speaks volumes about the appeal of the design and the quality of the sake itself.
The design was not only appreciated by customers but also recognized by the prestigious A' Design Award, where it won the Silver Award in the Packaging Design category in 2019. This award is given to designs that showcase outstanding expertise, innovation, and artistic skill, further validating the excellence of Kirinzan Momiji Kin's design.
In conclusion, Ryuta Ishikawa's design for Kirinzan Momiji Kin is a testament to the power of thoughtful design in enhancing the appeal of a product. It beautifully captures the essence of autumn in Japan and the rich flavor of aged sake, making it a true masterpiece in the world of design.
Project Designers: Ryuta Ishikawa
Image Credits: Ryuta Ishikawa
Project Team Members: Art Director & Designer: Ryuta Ishikawa, Production: frame inc.
Project Name: Kirinzan Momiji Kin
Project Client: Ryuta Ishikawa