2 cups sugar
2 cups white wine
1 ½ inch piece of fresh ginger, cut in half lengthwise
2 sticks cinnamon
1 tsp. allspice
2 tblsp. loose tea leaves
2  4inch strips of orange peel
4 large pears peeled and cut in half lengthwise
Make syrup with wine, sugar and spices by simmering in a saucepan for 5 minutes.
Place pears in liquid and simmer for another 30 minutes until pears are tender.  Cool to warm and serve.
Cook’s note:  You can use American pears or Asian pears.  If using Asian pears, you may have to simmer longer.