To celebrate the Lunar New Year in 2023, Hennessey asked artist Yan Pei-Ming to design a limited-edition bottle and case for their much-loved X.O. Cognac. Born in Shanghai in 1960, the internationally acclaimed artist Yan Pei-Ming is famed for the epic size of his paintings and the rapid sweeping flourishes of his brushstrokes. As well as producing portraits of Bruce Lee, Barack Obama, Mao Zedong and Pope Jean-Paul II, the Dijon-based painter has now created a monumental piece for Hennessy to honour the Year of the Rabbit. This might be Hennessy's most inclusive limited edition yet, because it doesn't just focus on the rabbit, all the twelve animals of the zodiac are featured galloping in unison. Painted in amber, russet, orange and burgundy tones, the vibrant and dynamic piece is called'The Great Race'and it depicts the Jade Emperor's competition. It feels like a particularly timely artwork, when we need to remember the interconnectedness of things and the fact that we're all in this together. The Lunar New Year of the Water Rabbit starts on 22 January 2023. In Chinese culture, the rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace, patience and prosperity. This is quite the shift after the spectacular excitement of the Year of the Tiger that is drawing to a close. Water Rabbits are gentle, charmingly amicable and extremely adaptable, so hopefully this is a year in which we can come together as friends and move forward as one, inspired by Yan Pei-Ming's incredible artwork. Created by Maurice Hennessy in 1870 for his circle of friends, Hennessy X.O. was born at a turning point in history, introducing a new style of Cognac that was bold, rich and complex. Now established as one of Cognac's flagship releases, Hennessy X.O. is skilfully assembled from over 100 eaux-de-vie components and aged for at least 12 years to give it an unparalleled robustness and exquisite balance. Boasting notes of candied fruit, spice, cocoa and cedar, this remarkable Cognac is smooth and full-bodied with a roundness and incredible depth. The elegantly presented bottle would be a unique and unforgettable gift for any Cognac enthusiast. Especially as it comes in a limited-edition box designed by one of the world's more celebrated and sought-after contemporary artists.£32.14 per 100.00ml