The Story Behind South West Garlic Farm
The journey of South West Garlic Farm began with three garlic cloves gifted to founder Mark by his wife, Wendy. Originally a livestock farmer with 600 sheep, Mark’s career took an unexpected turn after a serious back injury and the impact of foot and mouth disease. Looking for a new direction, he planted those garlic cloves—and what started as a small experiment soon turned into a thriving garlic farm.
Today, the farm cultivates 90,000 elephant garlic bulbs across 10 acres near Bridport, Dorset. With a strong focus on biodynamic farming, everything on the farm has a purpose—from the cattle providing natural fertiliser to the carefully nurtured soil that helps produce some of the finest garlic in the UK.
The Black Garlic Revolution
Seeking a way to extend the garlic season, Mark discovered the 4,000-year-old method of making black garlic. But perfecting the process wasn’t easy—the traditional technique involved aging garlic in earthenware pots under the sun, which wasn’t practical in the UK.
Determined to get it right, Mark spent over three years refining his method, developing a carefully controlled fermentation process that naturally transforms fresh garlic into rich, umami-packed black garlic. The result? Soft, sweet, tangy cloves with hints of balsamic vinegar and molasses.
At first, no one knew what it was—chefs mistook it for garlic soaked in balsamic. But after introducing it at food festivals and entering the Great Taste Awards, it quickly became a sensation in the culinary world. Black Garlic has been called the ‘new truffle’, thanks to its deep, complex flavour that enhances both savoury and sweet dishes.
A Focus on Quality & Innovation
Now a family-run business, South West Garlic Farm continues to push the boundaries of garlic-based products, crafting a select range of premium offerings:
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Black Garlic – Naturally aged and fermented for weeks to develop its signature sweet, umami-rich flavour.
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Black Garlic Sea Salt – A 2-Star Great Taste Award-winning seasoning, blending black garlic with Atlantic Ocean sea salt for a bold, complex finish.
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Garlic Sea Salt – A 1-Star Great Taste Award-winning blend of pure garlic and sea salt, offering the perfect balance of savoury flavour.
Each product is made with a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and natural ingredients.
Sustainable, Regenerative Farming
South West Garlic Farm operates with a sustainable, biodynamic approach, ensuring everything on the farm plays a role. Their cattle contribute organic fertiliser, their crop rotation maintains soil health, and their low-intervention growing methods preserve the natural integrity of their garlic.
By maintaining a circular farming system, the farm ensures that it remains productive, environmentally responsible, and future-proofed for generations to come.
Discover South West Garlic Farm’s Award-Winning Range
Whether you’re looking for the deep, umami richness of Black Garlic, the bold flavour of Black Garlic Sea Salt, or the simple yet versatile Garlic Sea Salt, South West Garlic Farm’s products offer exceptional quality, sustainable sourcing, and a flavour experience like no other.
Explore the range today and bring the next level of garlic to your cooking.
