1. In a heavy saucepan put the sugar, 1 1/2 cups water, vanilla, orange and lemon rinds. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves,
2. Divide the apricots in 2 glass jars and cover the fruit with the reserved syrup. Add the vanilla, lemon and orange rinds . Pour 3/4 cup of brandy in each jar; seal the jars; store in a cool place, turning them daily for a week. Add more brandy, if necessary to cover the apricots. Serve with vanilla ice cream.