Lautrec Wight is an Isle of Wight-grown version of the famous Lautrec Violet garlic from Haute-Garonne, France — one of only three French garlic varieties with AOC status. It produces medium-sized bulbs with a distinctive pink-purple blush and an intensely complex, slightly sweet flavour that has made it one of the most sought-after garlic varieties in European cuisine.
Flavour
Complex, rich, and slightly sweet with a warm heat that develops slowly. More nuanced than standard white garlic with a distinctive floral quality in the aroma. The flavour is particularly pronounced when raw and mellows to something rich and deeply savoury when cooked. Considered by many chefs to be the finest flavoured garlic available.
In the kitchen
Best appreciated raw or lightly cooked where the flavour complexity is apparent. Excellent in aioli, vinaigrettes, and any preparation where garlic is the primary flavour. The pink skin makes sliced or crushed cloves visually beautiful. Outstanding in a classic French persillade or as the base note in a high-quality BBQ marinade.
Growing
Hardneck variety — plant in October–November in well-drained fertile soil. The central flower stem (scape) should be removed when it curls; this redirects energy to the bulb. Harvest in June–July. Hardneck varieties store for 4–6 months (shorter than softnecks) but the flavour complexity is superior. Certified UK-grown seed from Isle of Wight suppliers.