Cotogne Peaches in Wine

Florence is really hot in the summer. Not hot enough to put you off enjoying a lovely dinner but definitely hot enough to change your mind about dessert.
I never have a problem though because one of my favorite desserts only makes its appearance in the summer……peaches in wine. Not just any peaches will do if you really want to experience this unique delicacy. These peaches are specific to Rosano, a little area along the Arno just outside of Florence. They are called “Cotogne”; they are yellow; they are fragrant in an unusual way; their flesh is firm and spice-flavoured; they are tangy. Tangy is the only word for it. They were just made to be steeped in wine. Swoon.

P.S.  Only one other peach holds a candle to a Cotogne……and it’s to be found in Montelabbate, a tiny hamlet in Le Marche between Urbino and Pesaro.  My roots are there…..and I’ve been to their annual Peach Festival.  But that’s a story for another day.