At the Domaine d’Esthine, it all starts with the donkeys being milked by hand. Only a small amount of milk is taken every day because the well-being of the foals is essential. In the soap-making workshop, cold saponification can now begin. In a large container, fats (organic vegetable oils of olive, coconut, and shea butter), fresh donkey’s milk and essential oils are slightly heated and mixed with caustic soda, using an electric blender (photo). After a few minutes, the mixture thickens, and the soap paste is ready.