GATE 11 DISTILLERY
MODERN SPIRITS, TRACEABLE LABELS: LAUNCH EYE-CATCHING PRODUCTS WITH BUILT-IN BOTTLE TRACEABILITY
INTRODUCTION:
Gate 11 Distillery, located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is known for its inventive approach to craft spirits. From their award-winning agave spirit to small-batch whiskey and absinthe, their team needed a label partner that could keep up with both the speed and creativity of their product development. As they expanded their offerings, Gate 11 was intentional about avoiding the dated, rustic look that dominates many spirit labels. They wanted something cleaner, more sleek—something that reflected their unique process and elevated identity.
THE CHALLENGE
In addition to design needs, they also required production flexibility. The Gate 11 team frequently launches new products and seasonal batches, which means ordering in smaller quantities, changing SKUs quickly, and ensuring the labels hold up in various environments. They also needed support with compliance, including sequential numbering on specific products
Sequential numbering is a form of variable data printing where each label includes a unique number, allowing companies to track individual units for quality control, traceability, or limited-edition batches. We also have the ability to work with textured materials that would enhance shelf appeal and brand storytelling.
““THE LABELS HELP TELL THE STORY OF EACH PRODUCT—WE WANT THEM TO LOOK MODERN AND FRESH, NOT LIKE SOME OF THE DATED PACKAGING YOU STILL SEE ON THE SHELF.” – WANDA LEE, BUSINESS MANAGER
SOLUTION:
Upland Label became a trusted partner by providing responsive, design-forward solutions that matched the tone and variety of Gate 11’s portfolio. With our HP Indigo digital press, we’re able to run short batches, apply sequential numbering, and print across a variety of premium materials and textures. This allows Gate 11 to bring new products to market efficiently, without compromising quality or consistency.
Every new label is crafted to reflect the spirit it wraps. Whether it’s the crisp, clean look of their Blanco agave spirit or the more layered feel needed for an aged product, Upland works closely with the Gate 11 team to ensure each label helps the product stand out. Their upcoming green absinthe, for example, is a distinct formulation that blends infusion and distillation—a story that’s visually captured through carefully chosen materials and finishes.
“UPLAND HAS ALWAYS BEEN VERY QUICK TO RESPOND. WE’VE HAD A FEW MOMENTS WHERE WE NEEDED TO MOVE FAST, AND THEY’VE MADE IT EASY” – WANDA LEE, BUSINESS MANAGER
RESULTS:
With Upland as their label partner, Gate 11 has successfully expanded its lineup with confidence and style—most recently earning a Silver Medal at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition for their Salazar Reposado Agave Spirit. Each label looks as distinct and premium as the product it represents. The flexibility of digital printing has made it easy for their team to pivot quickly and continue exploring new flavors and formats without long lead times or high minimums.
THE FUTURE:
Gate 11’s team continues to work closely with our dedicated teams and values the hands-on, local support they receive. Whether it’s a rush order, a new SKU, or a reprint of a customer favorite, Upland ensures the process runs smoothly from start to finish.
Gate 11’s label strategy has become an extension of their product development process—intentional, creative, and always evolving. With Upland, their packaging now reflects who they are: innovative, high-quality, and unafraid to stand out. That confidence is fueling what’s next—Gate 11 is now preparing to expand their lineup once again with the launch of a vibrant green absinthe, continuing to push boundaries with bold products and standout design.
