Maison Hennessy has unveiled a vibrant limited-edition collaboration with celebrated Chinese fashion designer Shuting Qiu in honor of the Year of the Snake. The collection, titled Reimagination, features distinctive carafe designs for Hennessy’s VSOP, X.O, and Paradis cognacs, blending Chinese cultural heritage with contemporary artistry.
The snake, a symbol of renewal and transformation, is central to the collection’s theme. Vibrant abstract patterns inspired by Chinese brocade and jacquard fabrics adorn the bottles, reflecting the texture and elegance of snake scales. The designs also incorporate nods to Hennessy’s roots, with the snake’s sinuous movement evoking the Charente River in Cognac.
Distinct Designs for Iconic Blends
VSOP Edition: Youthful and energetic, this bottle showcases red floral motifs and abstract snake scales, paired with a plaid pattern. A textured gift box mirrors the tactile artistry of Shuting Qiu’s fabric designs. It also includes a reusable floral-patterned bag.
X.O Edition: Featuring bold shades of red, gold, and blue, the X.O bottle combines traditional Chinese lozenge shapes with a sleek, embossed snake design. The gift box, made from recyclable materials, is designed to evoke the feel of fine fabric.
Paradis Edition: The Paradis bottle is a vibrant red masterpiece with an abstract snake design symbolizing elegance and renewal. A leather collar with a spring-inspired motif completes the luxurious aesthetic.
The Designer's Vision
Shuting Qiu, a Hangzhou native now based in Shanghai, drew inspiration from the brocade patterns and embroidery of her hometown. “Hennessy has given me an opportunity to share my ideas and vision with the world, which is an incredible platform for me, as a young Chinese designer,” she said. “The Hennessy carafes are classics, and this is similar to fashion in that every brand has its classic silhouettes, unique designs and colors. My family and I often drink Hennessy during Chinese New Year, and my friends drink it when we hang out — it’s a great versatile drink, but my favourite way to drink it is simply over ice.”
Qiu’s artistic journey began at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, where she developed her signature style blending bold colors, intricate patterns, and feminine silhouettes. “I often find inspiration in art, literature, cinema, and travel,” she said.
Hennessy’s Commitment to Culture
“Hennessy has a long-lasting connection with Chinese culture, grounded in 164 years of shared history, also made of rich artistical collaboration,” said Laurent Boillot, CEO of Hennessy. “And it is a great pleasure to welcome Shuting Qiu to embody the spirit with which we usher Chinese New Year festivities. Her designs epitomize a harmonious fusion of tradition and contemporary flair, offering with elegance a fitting homage to our common cultural heritage.”
Where to Find the Collection
The limited-edition bottles will be available locally at the Hennessy Chinese New Year Pop-Up at One Bonifacio High Street Mall from January 13 to 29, 2025. They will also be sold online through platforms such as Boozy.com, Clink.com, and Singlemalt.ph starting January 10, 2025.
For more details, visit Hennessy.com or follow @Hennessy on Instagram.