1 c. dry red wine
1/2 c. sugar
1 piece cinnamon stick
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp. vanilla or 1 inch piece vanilla bean
4 firm ripe Bosc pears

Combine wine, sugar, cinnamon stick, bay leaf, and vanilla in 9 inch round pie plate or other baking dish. Stir to blend. Cut thin slice from the bottom of each pear so it will stand upright. Place pears in wine mixture and spoon a little sauce over each pear.

Bake at 350°F for 45 to 55 minutes, basting frequently with wine as it thickens and pears become tender. Remove bay leaf and vanilla bean if used. Serve warm or at room temperature with wine spooned over each serving.

Serves 4.