Purple Angel 2017
Trade Tools
Chile / Colchagua Valley
The vineyards destined for Purple Angel are located in the Marchigüe and Apalta sectors of the Colchagua Valley. The soils are of granitic origin and vary in their clay content, amount of organic matter, depth, and especially in the types of stones of fluvial and glacial origin, which reflects the tremendous diversity of soils in our vineyards.
Harvest Note
The 2016 - 2017 harvest was characterized by low levels of precipitation in winter, which meant the winery had to manage water closely while fully abiding by their philosophy of sustainable irrigation. After a benign spring, unusually high temperatures in January and February greatly influenced ripening. These spikes accelerated the accumulation of sugars, however, March brought cooler afternoons, shrinking the number of hours of heat and improving diurnal temperature variation. This was advantageous as it allowed the tannins to mature in the Carmenère clusters. Grapes were harvested in excellent health, with the optimal levels of ripeness and flavor.
Tasting Note
Impressive deep purplish-red in color. The aromas are complex, with pronounced blackberry and ripe blueberry fruit. There is also dried plum, cooked cherry and candied fruit. The 18 months of aging in French oak gives a complex nose of toasted aromas, nuts, sweet spice, and touches of dairy and vanilla. On the palate, the flavors follow the aromas, with sensations of dark fruit and toast leading to a long finish that is finely balanced with good body and structure.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 92% Carmenere, 8% Petit Verdot
APPELLATION: Colchagua Valley
PH: 3.51
ACIDITY: 3.72
ABV: 14.5%
AGING: 80% of the components of this wine were aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, 80% of which were new and 20% of which were used for the second time
Unique Selling Points
- Recognised as the best Chilean Carmenère, described as a “wine from another planet”
- Variety only reappeared in 1993, after it was thought to be extinct for 200 years
The story of Montes is a testament to what unique vision, grit, determination, and perseverance can achieve.
Aurelio Montes Sr, Chief Winemaker
About the Grape
Carmenère
Carmenère has spicy red berry aromas and black plum flavors, with a pronounced leafy and green bell pepper edge, and notes of grilled meat and coffee.
