Case Study/

Bière du Soir Lettering

French-inspired lettering for a limited-edition craft beer, capturing the essence of an evening brew.

Overview

Collaborating with Osborne Pike, I created bespoke lettering for Hertog Jan’s Bière du Soir, a limited-edition barrel-aged craft beer.

Inspired by the beer’s maturation in French oak barrels – previously home to Calvados, Cognac, Bordeaux Merlot, and Armagnac – the design evokes the sophistication of an evening digestif.

Flowing letterforms and hand-drawn drop shadows capture the elegance and warmth of a perfect nightcap.

Bière du Soir – The full line-up – Jamie Clarke Type
Bière du Soir – Wine-like Beer – Jamie Clarke Type

Method

I refined the lettering to harmonise with the curved baseline, enhancing the sense of movement. Each stroke was carefully adjusted to mirror the smooth, aged quality of the beer itself.

Each letter and drop shadow was optically adjusted to add depth, character, and clarity, reinforcing the artisanal craftsmanship behind both the lettering and the brew.

Bordeaux Merlot – Bière Du Soir – Jamie Clarke Type
Bière Du Soir –Typography – Jamie Clarke Type

Outcomes

I produced both horizontal and stacked versions of the logotype, encapsulating the beer’s French influence. The final label felt as rich and inviting as the drink itself.

The result? A beautifully packaged beer that quickly sold out—before I even had the chance to taste it.

He’s a rock star talent.
Paul Vaughn, Creative Director – Orvis

Bière du Soir – Poster Set – Jamie Clarke Type

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