The Merino d'Arles emerged in southern France in the late 18th century, when Spanish Merinos (then among the most tightly controlled agricultural assets in the world) were introduced into France and crossed with local breeds to produce a sheep suited to the Mediterranean climate. Smaller and hardier than its Australian descendants, the breed produces wool of exceptional fineness.

Our French wool is raised in the Hautes-Alpes, collected under the Laines de France quality charter, and combed and spun in northern Italy; a short, fully traceable chain that keeps the material close to its origin. The project is developed by a family wool business with nearly two centuries of experience in the trade, now working to build a viable commercial future for French wool within the fashion industry.

The yarn is worsted spun, 21.5 microns, the finest in the Erda range. It has a clean, smooth hand with natural structure and a quiet lustre. Fine enough for close-gauge knitwear and delicate constructions, with a natural resilience that comes from a breed shaped by altitude and open pasture.

21 micron
Available in: NM 2/30 & NM 2/15
Colours available depending on stock or on order