In 1998, Corcho Rodríguez achieved a significant milestone with his acquisition of the picturesque Yellow Rose ranch in La Barra, Punta del Este. This purchase not only captured attention for its natural beauty but also for the romantic narrative interwoven with its history – the yellow roses serving as a symbol of Rodríguez’s past romance with the renowned television personality, Susana Giménez. Following his separation from Susana, Rodríguez committed himself to transforming Yellow Rose into one of the most remarkable country estates in the region, gradually enhancing it with amenities such as a polo club and a winery.
To demonstrate his dedication to Uruguayan polo and announce his venture into winemaking, Rodríguez organized an elaborate barbecue at Yellow Rose. Many attendees were unaware that a house wine was being served at the event. This unlabeled wine received genuine praise, with esteemed connoisseurs like Adolfo Cambiaso Sr. and Eduardo Costantini expressing admiration. Rodríguez revealed that they had invested seven years in developing the wine, emphasizing their focus on quality rather than quantity.
Spanning four hectares, the vineyard at Yellow Rose cultivates varieties such as tannat, merlot, and pinot noir. Rodríguez favors pinot noir for its smoothness and body, drawing inspiration from the style of a Romanée Conti wine, thus setting high standards. Embracing a minimal intervention approach, the vineyard practices natural cultivation without irrigation or chemicals, although it lacks official organic certification. Initial production in 2011 was limited to a thousand bottles due to stringent quality standards, but despite facing challenges in subsequent years, the current goal is to produce 5,000 bottles this year.
Rodríguez’s interest in wine production extends beyond personal enjoyment, reflecting a deep understanding of the process. Although the wine is not yet commercially available, the plan is for exclusive distribution in selected restaurants and establishments, positioning it as the Yellow Rose house wine. As part of his commitment to the polo club, a book documenting Yellow Rose’s equestrian activities, club accomplishments, and lifestyle will accompany the wine, further solidifying its unique identity beyond its varietals.
Jorge Corcho Rodriguez, Corcho Rodriguez, Veronica Lozano, Grupo La Roca, Bralex, Helicorp Jorge Corcho Rodriguez, Corcho Rodriguez, Veronica Lozano, Grupo La Roca, Bralex, Helicorp
