As a designer with a deep appreciation for craft beer and Nova Scotia’s rich brewing history, I set out to create a series of new beer concepts for Alexander Keith’s Brewery—blending tradition with modern appeal.

The Objective was to develop a collection of four new brews and visually striking labels that honour the Keith’s legacy while appealing to the next generation of craft beer drinkers. Each beer was thoughtfully chosen to highlight Nova Scotia’s heritage and evolving craft beer culture!

The Brews
Blueberry Sour – A tart, fruit-forward experience featuring wild blueberries, a staple of Nova Scotia’s landscape. This brew appeals to both craft newcomers and sour beer enthusiasts.

Cream Ale – Smooth, light, and approachable with a creamy mouthfeel. Rooted in traditional brewing methods but crafted for modern tastes.

Cider – A crisp, gluten-free option made with apples from Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley. A refreshing choice for those seeking an alternative to beer.
East Coast IPA (NEIPA) – A hazy, juicy IPA that reflects the region’s brewing style. Featuring bold flavours and a low bitterness, it’s designed to resonate with both locals and craft beer lovers alike.

I wanted the labels to capture the essence of Nova Scotia, incorporating a hand-painted watercolor effect to symbolize the region’s deep connection to the Atlantic. Each label prominently features the iconic Keith’s stag, the brewery’s 1820 establishment date, and signature branding elements like "The Pride of Nova Scotia." After experimenting with different textures and layouts, I settled on a clean yet dynamic design that highlights both the heritage and uniqueness of each brew. Initially, I printed the labels on sticker paper for a prototype run, but unfortunately, the ink smudged, limiting their presentation. This was a valuable learning experience in production logistics—next time, professional printing will be a priority!

Despite some setbacks, seeing my vision come to life was incredibly rewarding. This project reinforced the importance of balancing storytelling, branding, and execution. While this collection remains conceptual for now, it’s a testament to the exciting possibilities of modernizing a historic brand while staying true to its roots.