the story

There is a saying that good design is similar to a wine glass; it holds the content and enhances it, but in the end, it’s all about the wine. By this proverb we are to understand that good design should not be flashy or gaudy, because the content is the content. For example, should a glass of “Two-Buck Chuck” be put in a sippy cup or in a fine crystal glass, the wine is the same cheap red at the end of the day. This is to say, even the best design can’t save poor content.

In his article “Graphic Design Now in Production,” Michael Rock discusses the idea of whether or not it is “all about the wine,” or whether there is hidden meaning and purpose in graphic design beyond just a pretty facade. He examines the way that design interacts with its content, much like how wine interacts with its container, and draws the conclusion that, yes, the wine is important, but it’s not the only important thing.

project synopsis

This book contains an in depth exploration of different type specimens, and connects them to the overarching theme of wine. Throughout the book twenty typefaces are examined and explained. For each typeface an example is given in context alongside a small paragraph of sample text. Both the example and the sample text relate back to the associated wine, and strive to impart some knowledge upon the reader. As with typography, many people know very little about wine. In the same way that a type specimen book acts as a guide and example to the typographer on how to use different typefaces, this book also acts as a guide to how to use and enjoy different wines.