I usually buy mine in August. Most companies are taking pre-orders by then for shipment in Sept-Oct.
Tom

Thanks Tom.
If I buy it early, in order to be sure to get the variety I want, do I risk it losing its viability? How far ahead could I buy it, and it would still be okay? Would I store it in the fridge? Thanks!

No, don't have them ship it to you.
In fact, most companies are taking orders on-line as early as mid June, so check around then to get the best choices.
Then when you order, they will ask you for a ship date.
Have it shipped as late as possible (like October). Let them store it for you under controlled conditions. Then when you get it, just plant it.
Once you order it, it's yours. They will just store it for you until you need it.

I have bought from with good results:
Fillaree Farm
The Garlic Store
Seed Savers
Seeds of Change

Hope this helps

Tom

Thanks Tom. Good advice!

A good place to purchase different garlics is Gourmet Garlic Gardens at http://gourmetgarlicgardens.com/index.htm They sell by the pound and I received 10 bulbs last fall which gave me over 100 cloves. They are taking orders now for this fall and will send it to you when it is about time for you to plant in your area. They will be harvesting this summer so you won't have to worry about receiving old stock. Their site has a very large amount of information about garlic and they sell about 40 different varieties. It is a family owned TX business.

Johnny

Here is a link that might be useful: Gourmet Garlic Gardens