• by Larissa Faw , August 7, 2014

Sonoma-based Devoto Orchards had a unique challenge for creative agency 160over90: capture the California state-of-mind in a bottle. 

Now, the beverage brand is launching Golden State Cider with this fresh coastal, carefree vibe in everything from the cider’s logo and mark, packaging, promotional and sales materials, and drinking accessories.

“We set out to create a brand that personifies the California lifestyle—confident yet carefree, active and adventurous,” said Tammo Walter, Vice President and Executive Creative Director of 160over90’s Newport Beach office. “Our experience in branding spirits and consumer packaged goods primed us for this launch, and the opportunity to brand a California-centric product really resonated with our West Coast team.”

Indeed, a major consideration in developing the Golden State Cider brand narrative was to make it synonymous with the California lifestyle, says Walter. "Active, adventurous and health conscious—in a way that was one, authentic, and two, would really cut through the clutter of other West Coast product offerings."

Adhering to this carefree vibe, 160over90 created a bright color palette of orange, cream, and teal, and a playful sea otter mark on all Golden State Cider packaging. Meanwhile, the brand's messaging, ‘From our orchard to your table, or surfboard or lawn, or rock or hood, or backpack or hammock,’ is also meant to conjure California memories. 

As part of the product launch, 160over90 designed branded Golden State Cider pint glasses, coasters and cocktail napkins, keg collars, tap handles, and table toppers that will be distributed at California North Bay bars and restaurants. 

Devoto Orchards is planning Golden State Cider launch events in the North Bay area and in other key California markets, including San Francisco. Promotional swag, including branded t-shirts and beach towels, will be used as giveaways at these launch events, in an effort to help cultivate a loyal brand following.

Later this month, 160over90-designed Golden State Cider cans and carry boxes will debut at California stores.

“Golden State Cider is made by Californians, for Californians,” said Nils Reid, co-founder of Devoto Orchards with Hunter Wade. “With the help of 160over90, the Golden State Cider brand is truly synonymous with the California lifestyle.”