A recessive gene results in nectarines having a smoother, and thinner, skin. Nectarines also tend to be smaller and have a slightly stronger smell that also remain firmer when ripe. Both fruits come in yellow and white varieties, which are distinguished not just by color but by flavor, too. The white varieties tend to be less acidic, and are sweeter even when less ripe, while the yellow varieties need to soften more to acquire their sweetness. At their peak, they have a flavor reminiscent of honey. When it comes to picking the perfect fruit, that flavor is important because the best way to tell if a peach or nectarine is perfectly ripe is to smell it. Pick one up: It should have a rich, sweet, fruity smell, and the flesh should give slightly under your fingers. While both fruits are, admittedly, pretty perfect eaten just as they are, you may want to use them in some fresh and unique ways—a little coaxing can make them into some pretty gorgeous desserts.
