I'm looking for berries that are a true and complete red. I avoid strawberries that aren't in transparent packaging. I want to see what I'm getting. When you're selecting berries, hold the cartons up and look at the bottom layers. Those berries should be as red as the top layers.
Flavor is the true test of a great berry.
To preserve the good taste, refrigerate berries, unwashed, with the caps on. Strawberry experts recommend that you store berries in between layers of dry paper towels. If this is too much trouble, just spread the berries out in a single layer on a tray in the refrigerator. Before using, wash the berries with the caps on so the fruit doesn't become waterlogged. Remove the green caps and serve.