A superb summer stone fruit of the peach family, with a smooth skin, flushed a pinky-red. The flesh is firm and fragrant, and varies from creamy white to quite deep orange. Varieties range from small to large, some with clingstones and some with slipstones, and can be used in most recipes calling for peaches. A nectarine is delicious eaten freshly picked on its own or, perhaps, with a glass of chilled Sauternes.