Annonay Alpine Grain Calf

Tannerie D'Annonay has produced this leather using their box calf tannage process developed since the tannery's founding in 1838. The embossing technique creates a textured surface that combines aesthetic appeal with practical durability, making it a preferred choice for high-end footwear manufacturers worldwide.

Tannerie D'Annonay has been producing calf leather since 1838 in Annonay, France, a leather production center since the 12th century. The tannery is now owned by Hermès and has inherited its expertise from two established 20th century tanneries: Combe and Meyzonnier.

The production process utilizes the tannery's box calf tannage, which gives the leather durability, wear-resistance, transparency and beauty used by luxury shoe and leather goods designers. The process involves beamhouse work (rehydrating and dehairing), chrome tanning with aniline dyeing in drums where color penetrates deeper into the hides, and currying to adjust thickness, soften the material, and flatten the hides before finishing. The tannery combines traditional methods rooted in ancestral know-how with modern techniques and offers a custom dyeing service for precise color selection.

Annonay Alpine Grain Calf, also marketed as Karagrain Alpine, is a classic aniline calf produced on sides rather than full hides. The leather is distinguished by its Alpine Grain embossing pattern, which gives the grain a unique look and feel. This embossing creates a textured surface that is very scratch resistant while featuring a medium shine finish, distinguishing it from high-gloss alternatives.

The leather is typically available in thicknesses ranging from 1.4mm to 1.6mm. The aniline-dyed finish allows the natural grain visibility to show through the embossing, combining the aesthetic appeal of a unique grain pattern with practical benefits of enhanced scratch resistance.

Annonay Alpine Grain Calf is produced in several color options to suit different footwear applications. Available variations include Dark Brown and Tan, which provide versatile color options for both formal and casual heritage footwear. Additional colors such as black and tobacco are also available from various footwear manufacturers using this leather.

Alpine Grain Calf is used by many bespoke and classic footwear brands and by luxury shoe and leather goods designers worldwide. Makers using this leather include Alden and Meermin. The leather's combination of scratch resistance and refined appearance makes it suitable for dress shoes and boots that require both durability and a polished aesthetic.