There are few things more refreshing on a hot summer afternoon than a tall glass of homemade peach juice. This sweet and aromatic treat can easily be made at home using a juicer and fresh fruit. Not all peaches are suitable for juicing, but the following list of the best peaches for juicing can help you choose the right fruits to create this refreshing drink.

Clingstone Peaches

Grown throughout the Northern hemisphere, these peaches are in season from early May to late August. Unfortunately, they may be difficult to find outside of farmer’s markets. Clingstones are aptly named because the flesh clings to the pit, or stone. With soft flesh and a delectably sweet flavor, these juicy gems are perfect for making juice. Just remember to remove the pit before tossing them in a juicer!

Freestone Peaches

More readily available at grocery stores, freestone peaches are so named because the pit is easy to remove from the flesh. Available from late May to mid-October, these peaches are less juicy than their clingstone counterparts but still yield a fair amount of juice. They also are generally the largest type of peach and still have a very sweet flavor that makes a delicious juice.

Choosing Peaches for Juicing

The best peaches for juicing are ripe, aromatic and slightly tender. A ripe peach has large patches of reddish-blue color with only a little yellow showing. Ripe peaches are also more rounded in shape and feel heavy. Choose the heaviest peaches you can find for juicing, as heavier fruits produce more juice.