Purple Angel 2016
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 2015 – 2016 season began with a winter that was drier than the previous year (15% less rain in Marchigüe and 7% less in Apalta). However, higher rainfall during the second half of October enabled an optimal level of water in the soil. The mild spring allowed for optimal bud break, foliage development, and flowering. The summer was particularly dry with a cool start, especially in January. February, however, was one of the hottest in recent years. March was cooler, which slowed ripening by 2–3 weeks. A few rainstorms complicated the harvest, but the winery was able to harvest without significant loss of quality. In general terms, the 2016 harvest was a good quality vintage with nearly each variety planted obtaining good ripeness. The tannins ripened nicely, which allowed for an earlier harvest with lower potential alcohol levels coupled with very good acidity, aromatic intensity, and tremendous color.
Tasting Note
Impressive deep purplish-red in color. Features outstanding aromas of ripe red and black berries, sweet spices, dark chocolate, and mocha notes. The palate is structured with soft, ample tannins. Acidity from the Petit Verdot lends juiciness and enable excellent and exceptional aging potential. The remarkable finish is elegant and intensely complex.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 92% Carmenere, 8% Petit Verdot
APPELLATION: Colchagua Valley
PH: 3.72
ACIDITY: 3.80 g/l
ABV: 15%
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.
