Step 1

In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of the sugar and the wine, and dissolve, stirring, over medium-low heat, and slightly reduced, about 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and cool. Combine the Mulberries and syrup in a bowl and toss gently to combine.

Step 2

In a bowl whip the heavy cream until it is nearly doubled in volume. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons sugar and whip until it forms stiff peaks.

Step 3

Spread 1 tablespoon of chocolate on the bottom of a dessert plate, and top with 1 pear slice. Layer with 1 tablespoon of cream, Mulberries, 1 teaspoon of chocolate, and 1 pear slice, and repeat to make 6 layers in all, finishing with Mulberries and chocolate on top. Repeat with the remaining ingredients, to make 4 napoleons in all.

Step 4

For Dried Pears: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 5

In a small saucepan combine the sugar and water, and dissolve, stirring, over medium-low heat. Add the lemon juice and cardamom, and stir. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.

Step 6

With a mandoline or other slicing machine, thinly slice the pears lengthwise to 1/8-inch thickness. Dip the pear slices in the syrup and shake to remove any excess. Arrange the slices tightly in a single layer on the baking sheets.

Step 7

Bake in the oven until crisp, about 2 to 3 hours, switching the baking sheets several times during the cooking process.

Step 8

This recipe yields 4 servings.