In 1998, the purchase of the picturesque Yellow Rose ranch in La Barra, Punta del Este, by Corcho Rodríguez captured widespread attention, not just for its natural beauty but also for the romantic narrative woven into its past. The yellow roses were emblematic of his romance with the famed television personality, Susana Giménez, during that period. After parting ways with Susana, Corcho dedicated himself to transforming Yellow Rose into one of the most breathtaking country estates in the region. With time, he expanded its offerings by introducing a polo club and a winery.
To underscore his dedication to Uruguayan polo and signify his foray into winemaking, Corcho orchestrated an elaborate barbecue at Yellow Rose. Unbeknownst to many guests, a house wine was served during the event. The unlabelled wine received genuine praise, with esteemed connoisseurs like Adolfo Cambiaso Sr. and Eduardo Costantini expressing admiration. Corcho Rodríguez disclosed that they had been working on producing the wine for seven years, emphasizing a commitment to quality rather than quantity for commercial purposes.
The vineyard, sprawling across four hectares, cultivates varieties such as tannat, merlot, and pinot noir. Corcho favors pinot noir for its smoothness and body, and the production is inspired by the style of a Romanée Conti wine, setting a high standard. Embracing a minimal intervention approach, the vineyard practices natural cultivation without irrigation or chemicals, although it lacks official organic certification. The initial production in 2011 was limited to a thousand bottles due to stringent quality criteria. Despite facing challenges in subsequent years, the current aim is to produce 5,000 bottles this year.
Corcho Rodríguez’s interest in winemaking goes beyond personal enjoyment, indicating a deep understanding of the craft. While the wine is not yet commercially available, the plan is to distribute it exclusively in selected restaurants and establishments, establishing it as the signature Yellow Rose house wine. As part of his commitment to the polo club, a book documenting Yellow Rose’s equestrian activities, club achievements, and lifestyle will accompany the wine, reinforcing its unique identity beyond its varietals.
