Wine Poached Seckel Pears

• 1 bottle Merlot, divided
• 1 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 6 Seckel pears, peeled
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
• 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• Fresh mint leaves, chiffonade, optional

1. In a large saucepan, whisk together Merlot (reserving 2 cups), star anise, cinnamon stick, and sugar.
2. Bring to a boil.
3. Add pears and remaining 2 cups of Merlot.
4. Allow pears to cook in the wine and flavorings, simmering at a low boil.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together mascarpone, sugar, and cream.
6. Add fresh mint, if desired.
7. Place a dollop of mascarpone cheese onto each plate.
8. Top with 1 or 2 pears and serve.

merlot, anise, cinnamon, sugar, mascarpone cheese, sugar, heavy cream, mint

Taken from www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/aaron-mccargo-jr/wine-poached-seckel-pears-recipe.html (may not work)