Google AI; Metechi and Bogatyr are very similar marbled purple stripe hardneck garlic varieties, often considered interchangeable because they are almost indistinguishable without DNA analysis. Both are known for their large size, robust, fiery flavor, and ability to store well. The main difference is their origin: Metechi is from Georgia, and Bogatyr is from Russia.
Might look into those next fall depending on how it goes. Mean time my first try on advice from Michigan State University (Zone 6B)
Polish Softneck
California Softneck
German White Hardneck
Music Hardneck
We love cooking with garlic, no reason why I never tried it before. Part of my logic is how long it stores. Unlike a crop like tomato where everybody's comes in at the same time and you can't give em away fast enough, garlic lasts maybe 6 months.
I will always go with a Hardneck Garlic variety.
With the Hardneck you get Garlic Scapes, which are wonderful!
9 Easy Ways to Use Garlic Scapes in Your Everyday Cooking
https://gardenbetty.com/use-garlic-scapes/
WiAG. Look at Eastonian Garlic. Large, mild, and stores well. Mine lasts 10 or 11 months. (Stored in a braid in my garage overwinter, usually 35F+) I purchased from Baker Creek, but they do not have any at this time. (good luck!)
I just put 80 cloves in the ground from last year’s harvest.
They have large cloves and the purple stripes. I always assumed it is Russian red but don’t know for sure. I started with a few cloves from a farmers market 10 years ago.