Pears Poached in Chianti Classico

1. Combine the wine, water, sugar and spices in a small saucepan, 7 to 8 inches in diameter. Place over medium heat.

2.  Peel the pears leaving the stems. Add them to the simmering wine mixture. Cook them over medium high heat for 10 minutes. Turn the pears over then simmer until tender for approximately 10 to 20 more minutes depending on the ripeness and size of the pears. (Test for tenderness by inserting a toothpick into the bottom end.)

3. Remove the pears from the liquid and set aside on a plate.

4. Continue simmering the wine mixture until it thickens into a light syrup, for approximately 10 minutes. Then return the pears to the pot and coat them with the syrup.

5. Serve immediately with ice cream or whipped cream.  Or serve them at room temperature or even chilled.