Inside Hennessy's collaboration with designer Shuting Qiu for the Year of the Snake
Prosperity and grace!
The Year of the Snake is here, and Hennessy is making it extra special with its latest limited-edition Chinese New Year collection. After teaming up with artists including Zhang Enli, Yan Pei Ming and Yang Yongliang in recent years, the brand has tapped its first female collaborator for 2025 — fashion designer Shuting Qiu — to reimagine the iconic VSOP, X.O, and Paradis cognac carafes.
Aptly named “Reimagination,” the bottle designs pay homage to the serpentine — a reminder to leave the past behind and embrace new beginnings. Hailing from Hangzhou, Shuting Qiu drew inspiration from jacquard fabrics, Chinese brocade and embroidery prints traditionally used in her hometown's clothing and textiles. She introduced abstract interpretations of a snake alongside vivid floral motifs that adorn the auspicious red bottles. The movement of the snakes, in particular, evokes the Charente River in Cognac — a subtle nod to Hennessy’s heritage.
In honour of the three distinct blends, Shuting Qiu created three unique artwork for each bottle, starting with the VSOP edition. The carafe boasts a “youthful and energetic” design, as described by the designer, featuring vibrant red floral motifs and Hawaiian-inspired elements. A closer look reveals a combination of plaid and abstract snake scales, symbolising renewal and legacy. It comes with a reusable lined bag boasting a striking design that can be reused.
“In Malaysia, Chinese New Year is a vibrant and cherished celebration that unites communities, bringing together families and friends in a spirit of joy and prosperity. This limited-edition collection by Shuting Qiu captures the spirit of the Snake — dynamic, resilient, and deeply connected to the cycles of renewal and transformation. We’re excited to share this special release to our enthusiastic Chinese-Malaysian community, inviting them to celebrate Chinese New Year with a piece that not only honours tradition but also embodies the innovative spirit that drives us forward,” states Laura Drozdowski, Marketing Director of Moët Hennessy, Singapore and Malaysia.
