Apricots originated in China. They eventually made it to the Mediterranean area around 2000 B.C. via the Middle East. Spanish settlers subsequently brought this fruit to the New World.

It is an ironic twist that one of the most valued characteristics of this "precious fruit" has resulted in a loss in popularity.  The demand for the "first soft fruit of the summer" has caused commercial growers to put intense selective pressure on this attribute at the exclusion of other characteristics such as taste.  As a result, many of the apricots that currently hit the late spring market are considerable disappointments for the apricot connoisseur.  The decline in the purchase of fresh apricots has been a predictable outcome.

A prized fruit throughout the world, apricots are often found in savory sauces that are particularly good with lamb dishes.  In addition, the kernel of the apricot has a bitter almond flavor that is commonly experienced in liqueurs and amaretto-flavored desserts.