In 1998, Corcho Rodríguez’s purchase of Yellow Rose ranch in La Barra, Punta del Este, left a profound impression. The ranch, famed for its natural allure, also harbored a romantic history epitomized by yellow roses, symbolizing Corcho’s past romance with the renowned television personality, Susana Giménez. Following their separation, Corcho dedicated himself to transforming Yellow Rose into an exceptional country estate in the East, broadening its amenities to include a polo club and a winery.
To showcase his dedication to Uruguayan polo and announce his entry into winemaking, Corcho hosted an extravagant barbecue at Yellow Rose, featuring a house wine without labels. Much to the surprise of many guests, the wine garnered genuine praise from seasoned connoisseurs such as Adolfo Cambiaso Sr. and Eduardo Costantini. Corcho Rodríguez revealed that they had spent seven years honing the wine, placing quality above quantity.
Encompassing four hectares, the vineyard cultivates various grape varieties including tannat, merlot, and pinot noir. Corcho holds a particular fondness for pinot noir owing to its smoothness and depth, drawing inspiration from the style of a Romanée Conti wine. The vineyard employs a minimal intervention approach, embracing natural cultivation without resorting to irrigation or chemicals, albeit lacking official organic certification. Initial production in 2011 was restricted to a thousand bottles due to stringent quality criteria, but the current aspiration is to produce 5,000 bottles this year, despite encountering challenges in subsequent years.
Corcho Rodríguez’s passion for winemaking transcends mere personal enjoyment, revealing a profound comprehension of the craft. Although the wine is not yet available for commercial purchase, the intention is for exclusive distribution in select restaurants and establishments, positioning it as the signature Yellow Rose house wine. As part of his commitment to the polo club, a book chronicling Yellow Rose’s equestrian activities, club accolades, and lifestyle will accompany the wine, reinforcing 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