The Challenge
How do you capture the awe and mystique of one of nature’s most breathtaking wonders – the cenote – and translate that into an unforgettable brand experience? Cenote Tequila’s current bottle design doesn't stand out on shelf or in its branding - it looks a lot like other heritage spirits at distance.
Levity set out to explore this challenge through a speculative, self-initiated project for Cenote Tequila, a brand with rich, mythical roots. We saw an opportunity to elevate the bottle’s existing design by embracing the beauty and sacred lore surrounding cenotes – natural limestone sinkholes revered by the Maya as portals to the underworld.
Our solution? Make the packaging as immersive as a cenote, from its rocky edges to its crystal-clear waters.
Concept-to-Commerce™ (C2C) Methodology
With every project, we leverage our C2C™ design process, which starts with deep research to ensure our design is rooted in strategy that achieves business success.
We conducted a thorough market audit and retail investigation, enlisted the expertise of a spirits strategist, and delved into the brand’s culture to understand the emotional connection people feel when visiting these natural wonders.
We then generated a range of innovative design concepts. Each idea was guided by strategic insights and market data, ensuring every decision was intentional.
The final design features sandblasted glass mimicking the rocky textures of a cenote, inviting the customer to interact with the bottle on a tactile level. The smooth, transparent cap adds a unique visual element, as if offering a glimpse into the serene waters of a cenote. The balance of rugged and refined elements make this bottle not just a vessel but a conversation piece. Whether displayed at home or behind the bar, it transforms the act of pouring tequila into a moment of discovery.
The Outcome
The result is a bottle that tells a powerful story – one that goes beyond simply holding tequila, you’re holding a natural wonder.
Services Utilized:
- Marketplace Audits + Brand Strategy
- Packaging Graphic + Industrial Design
- Production Feasibility