Daniel Libeskind’s work in architecture and urban design, professionally and academically, has always reflected a mind whose curiosities extend well beyond the field of his own sometimes insular profession. This propensity to maintain a culturally holistic perspective makes for an ideal collaborator. And it is this trait that brought together the architect with fine spirits maker Hennessy in 2022 for the design of a sharply angled and asymmetrical bottle celebrating the cognac distiller’s founder in namesake. The design has returned with a few special embellishments in the form of the Richard Hennessy Magnum.
The special 300th anniversary magnum decanter is accompanied by two Richard Hennessy glasses in cut crystal, a pipette, and holder to complete the special edition set.
Reflecting the architect’s signature style, Libeskind’s original geometric design for the Hennessy decanter was realized in Baccarat crystal, and so too is Hennessy’s 300th anniversary edition. Merging sharp angles with organic forms, Libeskind’s aim was not just to create a vessel for the precious amber-hued cognac, but also to operate as a storytelling object of the brand’s history. Thus each facet of the decanter catches light differently, symbolizing the many eras and milestones throughout Hennessy’s illustrious history.
The special edition Magnum is further embellished with an engraved portrait of Richard Hennessy designed by French calligrapher, Nicolas Ouchenir.
The partnership between Daniel Libeskind and Hennessy continues in an even more dramatic interpretation with this newly revealed 1.75-liter Baccarat Magnum containing the distiller’s scarcest and most precious eaux-de-vie. As with the original, the decanter seems to be levitating, but this time within a metal frame further emphasizing its precious liquid content.
Daniel Libeskind with his original Richard Hennessy decanter alongside his sketches.
The new Magnum edition is crafted and bottled at Hennessy’s Atelier des Éditions Rares in Cognac, a spirit purportedly rife with “flowery notes, soft spices, nutmeg, notes of leather and hints of fennel.” The exclusive nature of the Richard Hennessy Magnum comes attached to a revealing “price available upon request” disclaimer, and is available for purchase through private sales and at Houses of Hennessy worldwide – if you’re so inclined to broach the subject.
To shop the rare editions visit hennessy.com.