Garlic is one of the most popular and an indispensable condiment in many international cuisines and Spain is the largest producer and exporter in the EU-27.
"This marketing season has been very good in terms of quality, quantity and price, and the demand has allowed our purple garlic from Las Pedroñeras to record very good sales," says Agustina Ramírez, from the Spanish company Ajos Agus Ramírez. "It is true that some areas have had problems during the harvest because of the rain, but fortunately, our garlic was not affected, so product quality has been exceptional this season."
Prices have been better this season, with an average that remains notably higher at source (+29.2%) and also at the warehouse. Average prices are by far the highest for purple garlic, which is the Spanish garlic variety par excellence, even though its acreage has experienced a significant reduction over the last two seasons.
"For us, there is no better garlic than purple garlic, which is why our company doesn't work with any other variety. The purple garlic from Las Pedroñeras has an intense, spicy aroma and flavor, as well as culinary and curative properties that no other garlic can match, and it is highly appreciated by our national and international clients."
"In fact, in mid-November we will start planting garlic for next season and we plan to cultivate the same acreage we have always cultivated, around 50 hectares exclusively devoted to purple garlic."
"We were raised in the rural world and have always been taught to appreciate the value of local products, and at Ajos Agus Ramírez we will undoubtedly remain committed to the garlic which we believe is the best," says Agustina.
Much more than garlic
Indeed, by combining tradition with innovation, Agustina has managed to give added value to this vegetable which is so important for Las Pedroñeras, where her company is located.
"As producers, we specialize in garlic braids and bunches, two very aesthetic formats that maximize the shelf life and freshness of the garlic heads compared to cut garlic. I consider myself a garlic artisan and will design any kind of ornamentation with garlic."
"We naturally also work with black garlic, which stands out for its healthy properties, and this year we are going to launch a new garlic-based product that we have developed in partnership with a truffle producer: salt flakes with garlic and truffle," says Agustina. "It is a very exciting project that came about during a trip we made with different producers, organized by the Rural Women's Association. During this trip, we visited farms in different European countries. We have presented the product this month, and although our initial idea is to market the salt flakes in gourmet stores, several multinationals have already shown interest in this product."
For more information:
Ajos Agus Ramírez
Avda Juan Carlos I, 15 and 16
16660 Las Pedroñeras, Cuenca. Spain