Preparation

• In a large, heavy-based saucepan, combine the water and sugar over high heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar is dissolved and the syrup is simmering, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat. You should have about 2 cups.
• To the sugar syrup add the Champagne, pears, juniper berries, Poire William, vanilla bean, and orange zest. Simmer over medium-low heat until the pears are very tender, about 15 minutes.
• Take the pan off the heat. Remove the orange zest, vanilla bean, and juniper berries, squeezing the cheesecloth. Purée the pears and liquid in a blender. Add the lemon juice. Strain the purée into a large bowl set over ice to cool. Freeze the purée in an ice-cream maker, following the manufacturer’s instructions.