Chilean wines have an extensive history in the Americas. It started in the 16th century, when Spanish conquistadors first introduced "Vitis vinifera" grape vines to the new world. Then, in the mid-19th century, French wine makers immigrated to the promising new wine country bringing with them traditional French grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Carménère. The captivating Carménère has become the most emblematic Chilean grape.