1 1/2 cups water
1 cup Chardonnay
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
1 vanilla bean, split in half vertically
1 cup golden raisins
12 ounces Fromager d'Affinois cheese sliced into 24 pieces (or use any double-crème brie)
24 slices baguette cut ¼ inch thick
4 tablespoons ( ½ stick) unsalted butter, melted

1. In a medium-size saucepan, combine the water, wine, and sugar.

2. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat until the sugar is dissolved.

3. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Turn off the heat. Scrape the insides of the vanilla bean into the liquid and add the remaining bean.

5. Add the raisins. Let steep uncovered for at least 1 hour at room temperature.

6. Refrigerate overnight.

7. Drain the raisins, reserving the liquid. Discard the vanilla bean. Put the liquid back in the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce to about 1/3 cup, or until the syrup turns a deep golden color, 10 to 15 minutes. Watch carefully so the syrup doesn't burn. If it starts to foam, remove from heat immediately. The syrup will continue to thicken as it cools, and have a texture similar to light maple syrup. Cool completely.

8. Preheat the oven to 400 °F.

9. Brush butter onto both sides of the bread slices. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.

10. To assemble: Put a slice of cheese on each toast. Sprinkle with a few raisins and drizzle syrup over the top.