Look for
Rich colour and plumpness, and a slight softening along the ‘seam’. Some varieties are orange-yellow between the red areas, others are greenish. Hard, tan stains on the skin don’t affect taste.

Nectarines are another fruit that continue to ripen once they are picked so when you buy one, choose one that is firm. Avoid nectarines that have a greenish skin or hard, as this is an indication of being picked too soon, and although they will become softer, they will have a poor flavour and be less sweet.