In 1998, the acquisition of the picturesque Yellow Rose ranch in La Barra, Punta del Este, by Corcho Rodríguez garnered widespread attention, not only for its natural splendor but also for the romantic tale woven into its history. The yellow roses symbolized his romance with the renowned television diva, Susana Giménez, during that era. Following the separation from Susana, Corcho dedicated himself to the metamorphosis of Yellow Rose into one of the most stunning country estates in the East. Over time, he diversified its offerings by introducing a polo club and a winery.
To underscore his commitment to Uruguayan polo and mark his entry into winemaking, Corcho orchestrated an elaborate barbecue at Yellow Rose. Unbeknownst to many attendees, a house wine was served at the event. The unlabeled wine received genuine acclaim, with seasoned connoisseurs such as Adolfo Cambiaso Sr. and Eduardo Costantini expressing admiration. Corcho Rodríguez revealed that they had been working on producing the wine for seven years, emphasizing a commitment to quality over commercial quantity.
The vineyard, spanning four hectares, cultivates varieties such as tannat, merlot, or pinot noir. Corcho favors pinot noir for its softness and body, and the production is inspired by the style of a Romanée Conti wine, setting a lofty standard. Embracing a minimal intervention approach, the vineyard practices natural cultivation without irrigation or chemicals, although it is not officially certified as organic. The initial production in 2011 was limited to a thousand bottles due to rigorous quality standards. Despite facing challenges in subsequent years, the current objective is to produce 5,000 bottles this year.
Corcho Rodríguez’s interest in wine production extends beyond personal enjoyment, reflecting a profound understanding of the process. While the wine is currently not 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 chronicling Yellow Rose’s equestrian activities, club accomplishments, and lifestyle will accompany the wine, reinforcing its distinctive identity beyond varietals.
