History

HADESIS: The Gentle-Aroma Cognac, A New Renaissance

HADESIS is a cognac brand created by the CHOLLET family. It symbolizes the official journey of this family estate, rooted in the heart of the Cognac region, from France to Asia, where it now finds its place in the glasses and hearts of discerning spirit enthusiasts.

The roots of the CHOLLET family run deep in this land. In 1952, Jacques and Jeannine CHOLLET established their first farm through hard work and determination. In 1971, they built the Planty Distillery with their own hands. Over the decades, the family's roots became inseparable from those of their vineyards. Their eaux-de-vie have supplied some of the world's most renowned spirits houses. Through a discreet yet rigorous approach, the family has cultivated extensive expertise and earned an outstanding reputation.

When Christophe CHOLLET took over the estate, he traveled extensively to major international spirits exhibitions. He observed that traditional cognacs often displayed a powerful intensity that could be challenging for younger generations of consumers. In Asia, where drinking culture values finesse, elegance, and a lingering finish, overly robust spirits can feel like an untamed storm. Determined to innovate, Christophe set out to create a signature cognac for the CHOLLET family: smooth, aromatic, silky on the palate, and inspired by the Eastern appreciation for refinement and balance.

Today, most of the estate's vineyards are planted with vines over forty years old, carrying the richness and complexity that only time can bring. CHOLLET carefully blends eaux-de-vie from Petite Champagne and Fins Bois, combining vibrant fruit character with delicate mineral nuances to express the unique terroir of the region. Produced in small batches, each cognac is double-distilled in traditional Charentais copper pot stills. No water is added during the wine production stage prior to distillation. After maturation, the eaux-de-vie are gently reduced using deionized water and pure spring water, preserving the authenticity and purity of every drop.

Under the craftsmanship and vision of the CHOLLET family, HADESIS was born. Some eaux-de-vie aged for nearly fifty years continue their transformation in ancient oak casks before being meticulously blended by the cellar master with younger eaux-de-vie. The result is a cognac distinguished by its revolutionary smoothness and remarkable balance. This innovative style quickly gained international recognition. In 2025, HADESIS was awarded "Cognac of the Year" at the Asia Spirits Ratings and also received multiple honors at the London Spirits Competition.

The name HADESIS draws inspiration from Hades, the ruler of the underworld in Greek mythology, a symbol of renewal and profound strength. Like the cognac itself, it represents transformation—emerging from traditional conventions to create a smoother, more harmonious expression where power is refined into elegance, allowing ancient craftsmanship to flourish in a modern era.

To bring this vision of elegance to Asia, Christophe CHOLLET sought like-minded partners who shared his ambition. Through professional connections, he met two experienced Hong Kong partners who had spent many years developing Asian markets. Together, they successfully expanded the brand throughout the region. Today, HADESIS has established its Asia-Pacific headquarters in Hong Kong and continues to grow across Mainland China, Macau, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, and other key markets. The brand also proudly welcomed Hong Kong superstar Aaron Kwok as its first brand ambassador. Their shared pursuit of artistry, excellence, and perfection embodies the spirit of HADESIS and helps define a new era for cognac appreciation.

HADESIS carries the authentic heritage and pedigree of French Cognac while presenting a softer, more refined style tailored to modern Asian palates. More than a cognac, HADESIS is a timeless story of heritage, innovation, and rebirth.