karim rashid sculpts deconstructed decant bottle for stratus vineyards

challenging the conservative nature of the wine industry, karim rashid unveils a unique contemporary bottle design, named ‘decant’, for stratus vineyards. the collaboration between the new york-based designer and the canadian winery aims to surprise consumers, showcasing a deconstructed form that captures the brand’s diverse characteristics. significantly, the sculpted shape reflects the 44 vineyard blocks within their 55-acre estate, specifically the geological complexity of the soils from which the wine is grown. this mirrors the area’s layers of clay that are interspersed with granite and limestone.

the deconstructed form follows the layers of soil in the vineyard
all images courtesy of karim rashid

‘it was such a pleasure to work with david and stratus vineyards,’ explained karim rashid. ‘david is open to doing great, new, original things. I knew of his reputation based on him building a fabulous, progressive company at teknion, and when he asked me to design a wine bottle for his winery he was open to any possibility. the wine industry can be quite conservation, so this was a fantastic opportunity to do something unique.’

its sculptured shape challenges the conservative nature of the wine industry

designed by karim rashid, the ‘decant’ bottle houses stratus vineyards’ 2014 unfiltered cabernet franc. as a catalyst for stimulating discussions, much like the liquid itself, the bottle and its layered glass create a thought-provoking design, as well as a slip-resistant handle.

‘I wanted to create an iconic bottle that metaphorically deconstructs the traditional bottle while adding functionality,’ said rashid. ‘I’m very proud of the bottle and it still proves that all archtypes need to be revisited and, even more so, that every brand must differentiate itself in the 21st century.’

the glass’ form provides a slip-resistant grip

‘we chose to partner with karim because he brings forth a multi-faceted design perspective that breaks down traditional style barriers. his concept for the wine bottle brings something unique and unexpected to the world of wine,’ says david feldberg, president and CEO of stratus vineyards. ‘the result of our collaboration has been incredible. not only are we offering a functional wine bottle that houses a stellar wine, but we are presenting a collectible and timeless work of art,’ adds feldberg.

karim rashid’s sketch of the bottle design