A Guide to Merino wool. The finest yarn known to man - or woman come to that.

What is Merino Wool?

The softest, silkiest of all the wools. Merino is gathered from one sole species: the Merino sheep. This hardy, ancient breed originates from Andalucia in Spain but is now selectively bred in Australia and New Zealand, the new centres of Merino wool production.

Whilst prized for its wool, the Merino sheep is a fairly disagreeable-looking critter with gnarled curly horns and a beastly look in his eye. Despite his grizzly façade, there is no other creature more uniquely suited to their harsh, mountainous environment, protected by the special qualities of its fantastic fleece.

The Quality of Merino Wool

The Merino sheep has wool that’s fit for a king. The King of Spain no less, who liked the wool so much that in the 18th Century he banned its export from Spanish soils. We get a bit protective over our cardigans too...

The same qualities that dazzled a king still remain in Merino wool to this day. On average it is five times finer than the human hair. The fibres of the yarn have a natural crimp which trap air, insulating you from winter’s worst.

The fine knit has the added benefit of being highly breathable, and has a natural ‘wicking’ quality, that draws perspiration away from the skin. This makes it ideal for layering (a merino wool base layer); either draped over a Linen Shirt at a summer sundowner, or warm as toast under Harris Tweed.

Our extra-fine Italian Merino wool, spun in the foothills of the Alps by Zegna Baruffa

Rich in the naturally occurring oil lanolin, that, in addition to making the fibres silky and glossy, also lends the wool its antibacterial properties. This gives Merino garments a natural deodorising effect - Odor resistant!

Peter Christian Merino Knitwear

Our extra-fine Italian Merino, spun in the foothills of the Alps by Zegna Baruffa. One of the world’s oldest and most respected spinners of yarn. Producing quality Merino since 1924 and have built up a reputation for the finest woollen knitwear on offer.

Our Merino knitwear range sings a rainbow. Restrict your outfits to three colors at most. We have knitwear styles fit to suit any occasion. Polo neck, crew neck, v-neck, sweaters, vests and cardigans. You're sure to find something to complement your wardrobe.

Merino is our perennial favourite. Whether we are sipping a summer cup at a village fete or catching forty winks in front of a roaring fire, you’ll likely find us dressed in Merino Knitwear.

Lord Trousers.