Certain varieties of apples such as the Canadian McIntosh, California Gala and Jonagold are only available at this time of year and should be enjoyed now.

The Big Jim is the most common New Mexico chile variety boasting meaty walls and a large size (up to 14 inches in length!). The heat can vary from mild to medium, and the flavor is sweet and slightly smoky. Victor from La Granjita buys seeds from the Hatch Valley to grow his own Big Jim peppers, so you can taste the essence of New Mexico without a trip to the state.

Originating in France, the Abate Fetel pear has an elegant elongated shape with yellow skin that often is russeted. Sweet and aromatic, this pear is wonderful for cooking and eating out of hand. The Abate Fetel softens quickly so be sure to enjoy this variety while still slightly firm.

Traceland hand picks all of the avocados and delivers them to Earl’s within 24 hours of picking. The flavor is very creamy and rich in oil content. Remember that a late season California avocado will be very mature, high in oil and needs to be eaten firm.

The Warren is a gorgeous russeted juicy pear with a melting mouth feel.. The skin turns a golden yellow as it ripens and can develop a pretty blush in full sun.

California Keitt mangoes are super juicy and sweet with almost no stringy fibers and a small pit which means more fruit to eat. Don’t shy away from these green mangos because Keitts stay green even when ripe.

Heinke Family Farm in Paradise, (northeast of Chico in the Sierra Foothills) specializes in Concord grapes. These are the last organically grown commercial Concords grown in the U.S. The coveted Concord Grapes are highly aromatic with a floral flavor.

We are coming to the end of the California peach season and the transition from early season peaches, to late harvest peaches.  They are lower in moisture and less juicy than early varieties but they are full of flavor.

Organic mini seedless Champagne California grapes are bursting with flavor. Johnni Soghomonian from Three Sisters Organic says “You can eat them in little clusters, stems and all.  You get a little fiber and fabulous flavor!.”