The symbols behind Pyramid Valley’s wine labels
In the world of wine, label design – when carefully and thoughtfully crafted – can be the first invitation into a deeper story. At Pyramid Valley, our labels are a reflection of our land, our philosophy, and the natural forces that influence our wines.
Each of our Botanicals, Pastures and Colours collections is anchored by a unique icon. These symbols, while minimal in appearance, hold great meaning and act as a visual teaser to another layer of our story.
Designer Helen Milner has played a pivotal role in refining and expanding the Pyramid Valley iconography, transforming inherited visual elements into a system that reflects both the individuality of each collection and our natural, slow luxury approach.
When Helen was first introduced to the Pyramid Valley suite of labels, it was the iconography that immediately captured her imagination – especially the symbol created for the Waikari vineyard, which blended the alchemic symbols for limestone and clay.
“I love alchemic symbols,” she says. “I love the fact they have been part of Pyramid Valley’s DNA from the very beginning. I loved the old mural, which is part of your magic. And I love that [previous designers] Degree Design had worked their magic to create a bespoke icon for Waikari that spoke to the specialness of the soils in the area – soils that have such a profound influence on the wines that come from here.”
Mural by Christchurch artists Morpork and Yikes within the original Pyramid Valley winery
It was clear the icon wasn’t just a decorative motif, but rather a distillation of place, nature, chemistry and identity. So when Pyramid Valley looked to extend its design system to new collections, this symbol became the foundation.
While the Botanicals Collection speaks to specific blocks within a special vineyard, the Pastures Collection reflects a broader idea; expressions of different appellations, places, and people working in tune with their environment.
“The Pastures icon speaks to the essence of place,” Helen explains of her translation of that philosophy into a symbol that combined the alchemic symbols for life and earth.
The Colours Collection represents the vanguard wines of Pyramid Valley. It’s an outlet for creative experimentation and new perspectives on site and style. For this, Helen chose the symbol for spirit, a mark that represents the ‘colour’ and energy behind these wines and their makers.
“The Colours Collection is the team’s chance to paint their sense of somewhereness with an entirely different palette. It captures the spirit of the makers.”
Modern marks of intention
Blending ancient symbolism with modern design was never a forced exercise – it had to be a natural progression of Pyramid Valley’s heritage.
“Alchemy is a predecessor to modern chemistry – but more spiritual,” Helen says. “It’s not just about material elements, but about soul. To grow and make great wine, you have to have both!”
In the context of the label, these symbols act like a subtle maker’s mark. “They’re secondary to the text and illustration, but ever present as meaningful marks of authenticity and intention.”
“I hope people discover them and are curious about what they stand for, because they all tell different perspectives and stories of Pyramid Valley.”
For those in the trade, or anyone introducing the wine to a guest or customer, Helen hopes the takeaway is simple:
“Each of Pyramid Valley’s collections shares a different expression of who we are and where we come from. The art and symbolism that appear on each label embody these stories of soul and somewhereness.”
It’s a fitting reflection of Pyramid Valley’s wider philosophy.
“More than just the science of winemaking, it’s about the interplay between nature, chemistry, and soul that transforms the elements of a place into wine. Wines that breathe of their place.”