General Information
The nectarine is a rounded fruit with a single central groove. Its smooth skin is blushed with hues of ruby, pink and gold throughout. The flesh is perfumed with aromatics, overtly juicy when ripe, and golden colored with red bleeds at the skin and surrounding the central rough pit. A ripe nectarine’s texture is soft with a melting quality, its flavors balanced with layers both bright and sweet.
History
The definitive origin of nectarines is unknown. Documentation of the first nectarine was recorded in English in 1616. As peaches are native to central Asia, though, there is geographical speculation that the first nectarine was found growing on a peach tree within the same region and trade routes brought it to Europe in the 15th century. Genetic studies have concluded that nectarines are created due to a recessive allele. Without two copies of a gene, specific genetic traits will not be inherited. Thus, the nectarine naturally evolved as a fuzz-free peach. The lack of fuzz contributes to the fruit’s brighter colorings and to its ability to bruise more easily. Nectarines still occur as bud mutations on peach trees. The trees’ preferred climate is similar to that of the peach. Their growing regions are regulated by the seasons. Only in spring and summer will fruit become ripe. Nectarine trees need rainy winters and hot dry summers. Cultivation occurs in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres which experience opposite summers and winters allowing for year round availability.
