Is it warm enough for real winter?

Yes. British wool is a dense, insulating fiber, and the sweater is built as a mid-to-outer layer. It handles cold days well, especially over a long-sleeve base layer.

Will it itch on bare skin?

Wool at this weight often does. Most people wear a shirt or tee underneath; if you are sensitive to wool, plan to layer.

It is a regular, unisex fit, so it sits close but not tight and leaves room for a shirt. Size down if you want a trimmer look.

How should I wash it?

Hand wash in cool water with a wool detergent, then dry flat. Avoid hot water and tumble drying, which shrink and felt wool.

Is it a men's or women's sweater?

It is unisex. The regular cut works for both, and the pattern is the same across sizes.

How does it compare with a merino sweater?

It is thicker, warmer and more rustic than fine merino, but less soft and less packable. Merino suits travel and next-to-skin wear; this suits cold days and layering.