Fiambala is a remote wine-producing region in the far-northern province of Catamarca in Argentina. The valley sits roughly 5000ft (1500m) above sea level, at a latitude of 27°S – as close to the equator as central Baja California. This wine-growing area is small but is nevertheless the home of the majority of Catamarca's vineyards. The most important grape varieties grown here are Bonarda and Malbec.
The tiny village of Fiambala is located in the valley of the Abaucan River, nestled among the western foothills of the Andes Mountains. Given the limited area suitable for viticulture, the Fiambala vineyards are all located within a single, concentrated area, running north to south for about seven miles (11km) along the valley.
Fiambala has a dry climate with classic desert extremes of temperature in the summer and winter. The valley falls within the rain shadow of the 9000ft (3000m) peaks of the Andes to the west and so relies on irrigation from the river, which is formed by high-quality Andean meltwater.
The combination of altitude and the desert landscape creates a significant diurnal temperature variation here. Intense sunshine and high temperatures during the day are followed by much colder nights where grapes are given a chance to cool down. This extends the ripening period, leading to grapes with a good balance of fruit complexity and acidity.
As with many of the world's viticultural regions, the area is also known for the production of both olives and raisins.
