The Best New England Clam Chowder

Name: The Best New England Clam Chowder
Ingredients: 8 slices bacon (divided); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup onion (finely chopped); 1 cup celery (finely diced); 2 cups potatoes (diced); 2 6 ounce cans chopped clams (liquid reserved); 8 ounce bottle of clam juice; 2 medium bay leaves; 3/4 cup butter; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups half and half; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon seasoned salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme