Echt is a sourdough bakery in Timaru, and its name is the German word for genuine and real. Loaves are naturally leavened with wild culture, use Canterbury-grown grains and flours, and contain no additives. The range includes soft sandwich loaves, crunchy artisan loaves and traditional rye. The bread is naturally vegan and dairy free.
Bread is made to order and sold by subscription, weekly or fortnightly, with a surprise option. Orders are picked up in Timaru on Wednesdays from the back porch at 17 Dee Street, between 3.30 and 6pm, or in Geraldine on Thursdays at Cafe Verde. Pick-up is self-service, and payment is made online. Subscribers are offered seasonal bakes such as hot cross buns first.
Customers say the bread is really great, hearty and yummy. One visitor praises the sourdough workshop and says the baker was informative and patient. Beginner workshops are offered, and more advanced and gluten-free topics are planned. The bakery cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment.
The only other bakery within a kilometre is Coupland's Bakeries on Grey Road, 0.3 km away.