Strawberries in Wine Syrup

Recorded May 12, 2008. Adapted from Made in Spain on PBS-TV, with Chef José Andrés.

1/2 lb ripe strawberries, hulled and halved
2 T sugar, approximate
1/4 t ground cinnamon
1/2 t vanilla extract
3 T mellow red table wine (e.g., carmenere, temparanillo, garnacha, pinot)
pinch freshly-ground pepper
1/2 t balsamic vinegar

Combine ingredients in a bowl, turning gently to combine and dissolve the sugar. Add more sugar if needed. Cover and refrigerate, stirring occasionally. Serves 4. Excellent over vanilla yogurt or vanilla ice cream, or simply as a fresh fruit salad. So beautiful and delicious. Variation:  A sliced banana added just before serving boosts both flavor and nourishment.