• Begin by gathering the ingredients. Prepare 4 medium Red Anjou Pears by coring and slicing them. Cut off 1 strip orange peelfrom a fresh orange.
You may leave the skin on or peel the pears. Your choice.

Poach the Pears

• Place 3 cups elderberry wine, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, orange peel, 1 piece cinnamon stick, and 6 whole cloves in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, and continue to boil for five minutes.
• Add the sliced pears and make sure they are covered by the wine. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer for 15 minutes until pears are just turning tender. Remove the pears, orange peel, cinnamon stick, and cloves and place in a bowl or plate for them to cool.
• Continue to cook the sauce on medium low heat for another 10-12 minutes until the wine has reduced and is starting to thicken. Allow to cool.
The liquid will thicken as it cools.

Prepare the Crust

• Preheat oven to 375℉. Combine 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl. Using a blending fork, cut in 1/3 cup vegetable shortening until small crumbs form. Add 1/4 cup cold water in two parts until dough forms a ball. Gently knead 3-4 times until the dough is smooth.
• On a lightly floured work surface, roll the dough out into a 13-inch circle. Transfer dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
• Arrange the pear slices on the dough, (being as decorative as you desire) beginning in the center and working outward, leaving a 2-inch border of dough. Fold the dough edges up and over the pears. The center should remain open. Pour the reduced wine sauce over the pears, being careful to keep it inside the pastry shell.
• With your fingers brush 2 tablespoons whole milk over the top crust. Sprinkle with 4 teaspoons Decorating Sugar.
• Bake in a preheated oven on one of the lower racks until crust has browned, about 25-30 minutes. Allow to cool. Carefully, transfer to a serving plate or tray.
• To serve, cut Crustata into slices. Garnish with a dollop of fresh whipped cream. This recipe will serve 8-10 people.