The Best Materials for Premium Wine & Spirit Labels
Why Material Choice Matters for Wine Labels
When it comes to premium wine and spirit labels, material choice is just as important as design. The right material not only enhances brand perception but also ensures durability in challenging environments like wine cellars and ice buckets. At Baker Materials, we supply a range of high-end label materials specifically designed to meet the needs of the wine and spirits industry.
Key Qualities of Premium Wine Label Materials
Wine labels need to balance aesthetic appeal, functionality, and durability. Here’s what makes a high-quality wine label material:
Moisture Resistance
Prevents labels from wrinkling or peeling when exposed to condensation or ice buckets.
Durability
Ensures the label maintains its appearance throughout transportation and storage.
Textured & Uncoated Papers
Provide a premium, artisanal feel, commonly used for traditional wine and craft spirit labels.
Adhesive Performance
Specialised adhesives ensure labels stay firmly in place, even in chilled or damp conditions.
Types of Wine Label Materials
Textured & Uncoated Papers
Uncoated papers with natural textures are a favourite for premium wines, creating an elegant, handcrafted look. However, they can be more prone to scuffing, so careful selection is required.
BM163 Tintoretto Crystal Salt
Specially designed for product labels of high added value bottled in glass (wine, oil…) View product spec
BF930 Noble Blanc
A white, uncoated matt woodfree printing paper with a felt marked finish. Wet strength and fungicidal treatment. This product is designed for Wine labelling, it is suitable for primary labelling of high and premium goods eg: spirits, specialist foods. Printable by all conventional printing techniques. Due to the open and textured nature of the face material, best results are in general from those techniques with maximum conformability of printing plate such as flexo and offset. View product page
Film-Based Labels
Synthetic materials like polypropylene can have a metalised finish or produced as clear films, making them ideal for labels requiring alternative design features, such as a no-label look on clear bottles.
BF042 Bright Silver TC PP
A bright silver metallised BOPP film top coated for print receptivity. Specifically designed for labels for non-squeezable containers, e.g cosmetics, toiletries, household chemicals, appliances, toys and car care products and promotional labels and stickers for indoor use. Read full spec
BM589 Gloss Clear TC PP 50mµ
A clear, gloss biaxially orientated polypropylene film, topcoated for print receptivity. Read full spec
Coated Papers
For a smoother, more modern appearance, coated papers offer excellent print clarity while being more resistant to moisture and wear.
BF171 Matt Wine
A matt coated, supercalendered woodfree white printing paper with a wet-strength and fungicidal treatment This product is designed for Wine labelling, it is suitable for primary labelling of high and premium goods eg: spirits, specialist foods.
BF155 Epique FSC
A woodfree matt uncoated paper with a “laid” textured surface with higher whiteness. Suitable for primary labelling of high quality luxury goods with an “old world” image such as wines, spirits and specialist foods. Printable by all conventional printing techniques. Due to open and textured nature of the face material, best results in general from those techniques with maximum conformability of printing plate such as flexo and offset. Read full spec
Sustainable Wine Label Material Options
More brands are prioritising sustainability, and Baker Materials offers a range of eco-friendly wine label materials:
FSC - certified papers
Responsibly sourced, high-end label materials.
Recycled-content papers
Premium papers made with 100% post-consumer waste.
Alternative fibre papers
Cotton, sugarcane, or grass-based papers for a natural, luxury feel.
Wash-off Adhesives
Allow labels to be easily removed during bottle recycling or reuse.
How Wine Labels React to Cold & Humidity
Wine bottles often experience condensation in cellars, fridges, or ice buckets. To prevent peeling, we recommend wet-strength papers or synthetic facestocks with moisture-resistant adhesives.
Best Adhesives for Wine Labels
The wrong adhesive can cause labels to lift, slide, or wrinkle. We stock adhesives specifically formulated for:
• Cold and wet surfaces – Ensuring strong adhesion even on condensation-covered bottles.
• Ice bucket resistance – Preventing labels from peeling when submerged.
• Recyclable labels – Wash-off adhesives for easy removal in bottle reuse programs.
Embellishments & Printing Considerations for Wine Materials
Different wine label materials react differently to printing and embellishments:
• Embossing & Debossing – Thick, textured papers work best for creating a deep, tactile effect.
• Foil Stamping – Coated papers provide a crisper shine, while uncoated papers offer a softer metallic effect.
• Screen Printing – Ideal for high-opacity whites and raised spot finishes.
Printing Methods & Compatibility for Wine Label Materials
• Digital Printing – Works well on most papers, though uncoated materials absorb ink differently.
• Flexo Printing – Offers bold colours and is ideal for embellishments.
• Screen Printing – Adds raised effects for a luxurious finish.
Choosing the Right Wine Label Material
Selecting the right label material is crucial for both branding and performance. At Baker Materials, we offer expert advice and a wide range of premium materials tailored for wine and spirits. Whether you need luxury textured papers, sustainable options, or moisture-resistant labels, we can help you find the perfect solution.
Need Samples or Advice?
Contact us today to request samples or speak with our material specialists to find the best solution for your brand.
Do You Need a Quality Wine Label Printer?
We can supply you with the material you need to print and produce wine labels but if you want the full service and are looking for a company to print and produce wine labels with high quality embellishments then look no further than our colleagues at Baker Labels
Beat The Blues
It's Blue Monday - often called the most...
2024- A Year in Review
As the year draws to an end, we’re pausing to...
Christmas Details
With the holiday season just around the corner,...