Start with the pears; cut the bottom so they can stand in the pot to poach. Peel from stem down, to avoid cutting the stem. Place all 4 pears in a medium saucepan. Add water, wine, honey, cardamom and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil then simmer until pears are soft but yet still hold their shape. Depending on the firmness of the pear this should take 30 to 40 minutes. Remove the pears and let cool in the refrigerator. Remove the cinnamon stick and bring the liquid to a boil till it reduces to about ¾ and starts to caramelize. For serving, place pear on a plate, drizzle the wine reduction over the top of the pear and let it run down the sides. Garnish with walnuts and crumbled blue cheese.
Makes 4 servings