Although the grape variety originates from the USA, it is a species Vitis vinifera. Nothing is known about its origin. Synonyms are Emperador, Genova, Genova Rosa, Red Emperador and Red Emperor. The versatile red berry vine is used as a wine grape, table grape and for raisins. In California, it was one of the most important table grapes until the 1980s, with 7,000 hectares of vineyards. However, the stock has shrunk to 300 hectares because it has been replaced by the Red Globe variety. It is particularly suitable for very warm areas and is also cultivated in Australia, Brazil, Chile, Mexico and South Africa. The variety was a cross between the new varieties Blush Seedless, Centennial Seedless, Christmas Rose, Crimson Seedless, Emerald Seedless, Red Globe and Ruby Seedless. A seedless mutation is called Emperor Seedless.