Buffalo Creek Brewing, a destination brewery and taproom hailing from historic Long Grove, Illinois had identified distribution opportunities with local retailers, and needed a go-to-market strategy. CIULLA was engaged to launch three beer styles to be sold as 4-pack 16oz tall boys. Our process began with naming across three distinctive styles of beer; a Traditional Style Helles, a double dry hopped American Wheat and a flagship Vienna Style Lager. Through a deep category audit, strategy naming sessions and trademark research; Angelic Helles, Half Nelson and Long Grove Lager were agreed upon and conceptual package development began.

Our design process began by cracking open 'a flight'  of design treatments and strategies to review with Buffalo Creek Brewing management. Can designs ranged in look & feel from; true crafted character, typographic driven treatments, and visually iconic approaches. After a detailed review, 'last call' was for an authentically crafted brand strategy that could visually come to life through unique tattoo-style illustrations. Each would reflect the beer's unique style, attributes and story. The tattoo illustrations immediately felt right for the staff and head brewmaster Mike Marr.  The hand-crafted treatment and unique name for each brew celebrated Mike's craftsmanship, hands on approach and award-winning recipes, all while staying true to the brewery's roots in Long Grove, Illinois.

As our partnership with Buffalo Creek Brewing has grown, we've continued to bring seasonal varieties to market. The brewing team is constantly experimenting with new recipes, ingredients and have a number of seasonal brews coming on tap and ready for distribution. As these limited edition, rotating beers come and go, CIULLA is enlisted to help develop designs using a unique name and proprietary illustration. Each brew presents it's own design challenge and we're always up for another round!