Montes Purple Angel 2021

Produced in the Colchagua Valley, Chile, this wine comes from two premier vineyard sites: Finca de Apalta and El Arcángel de Marchigüe. The Colchagua Valley is renowned for its ideal growing conditions for red grape varieties, particularly Carmenère, due to its diverse soils and Mediterranean climate. Apalta features heterogeneous soils influenced by the Tinguiririca River and the surrounding mountains, offering depth and complexity to the wines. In contrast, Marchigüe's flatter terrain and shallow clay-rich soils provide a different yet complementary profile. Together, these vineyards represent the pinnacle of Chilean viticulture.

The 2021 Purple Angel is a blend of 92% Carmenère and 8% Petit Verdot, showcasing the richness and depth of the Carmenère variety, with Petit Verdot adding structure and intensity. Carmenère, often referred to as Chile's signature grape, delivers a lush and velvety profile with ripe fruit and spicy undertones, while the Petit Verdot contributes vibrant acidity and tannins, resulting in a complex, full-bodied red wine.

The grapes were hand-picked and meticulously sorted to ensure only the best fruit was used. Cold maceration was carried out at 10°C for 5–7 days to extract optimal colour and aroma precursors. Fermentation with selected yeasts lasted 12–15 days at temperatures between 26°C and 29°C. Post-fermentation, the wine underwent extended maceration to enhance its body and extract beneficial elements from the skins. The wine was then aged for 16–18 months in French oak barrels, with 70% in new barrels and 30% in second and third-use barrels, achieving a perfect balance of fruit, oak, and tannins.

This vintage exhibits an intense carmine-red colour with striking clarity and viscosity. Aromas of blueberry, blackberry, and characteristic fig are complemented by sweet notes of chocolate, vanilla, and nutmeg, imparted by the oak aging. On the palate, it is rich and balanced, with velvety tannins and a vibrant acidity that sustains a long, flavourful finish. Layers of roasted coffee and dulce de leche emerge, adding complexity to the wine's already elegant profile.

Purple Angel pairs wonderfully with rosemary lamb chops, grilled red meats, and pork ribs. It also complements rich pasta dishes like cannelloni and robustly flavoured cheeses. Decant for at least an hour before serving at 17–19°C.