How can I tell if a pineapple is ripe?

The answer

Look for a fresh green crown, a sweet smell at the base and a fruit that feels heavy for its size. A pineapple will not get much sweeter at home, because it is generally harvested ready to eat, so choose carefully. No smell may mean underripe, while a strongly fermented or vinegary smell suggests overripe. Golden color often starts at the base, but a mostly green pineapple can still be sweet, so rely on aroma and weight too.