We knew, when we tucked those pears into the village baskets, that we had to include a recipe for wine-poached pears. 

This is a dessert that's under-rated. Which is such a shame. It hits so many notes, the chill of the pear flesh, the sweetness of the wine, the spice from cinnamon, clove, and star anise. The warmth of the orange. And then the rich chill of fresh whipped cream or smooth mascarpone cheese. It's just so good and so, so striking.

A sexy, sophisticated Valentine on the plate.