In 1998, Corcho Rodriguez’s acquisition of Yellow Rose, a scenic ranch nestled in La Barra, Punta del Este, grabbed headlines across various magazines. This was not just due to its idyllic setting but also because of Rodriguez’s romantic involvement with Susana Giménez, a leading television figure, which stirred significant public intrigue at the time. Following their split, Rodriguez embarked on a journey to redefine Yellow Rose, transforming it into a spot that welcomed the gaze of the public.
Now, a conspicuous sign above the wooden entrance along the Camino del Cerro Eguzquiza, heading towards San Carlos, proudly declares Yellow Rose as a premier country estate in the region. In a bid to open up the estate, recent initiatives have included the introduction of a polo club and a vineyard. Highlighting his ventures in Uruguayan polo and his venture into winemaking, Rodriguez hosted a large barbecue event at Yellow Rose, where the highlight was an unlabeled house wine served to the guests.
This mysterious wine, passed around among the attendees, sparked curiosity and was well-received, with notable figures like Adolfo Cambiaso Sr. and Eduardo Costantini expressing their admiration and interest in purchasing it. The event, co-hosted with Verónica Lozano, was marked by an ambiance of enjoyment under the stars, with good music, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a convivial gathering of friends.
The wine project at Yellow Rose goes beyond mere enjoyment, showcasing Rodriguez’s deep interest in the winemaking process and the dedication to producing a quality product. After seven years of soil analysis and grape selection, with a preference for pinot noir for its smooth yet robust profile, Rodriguez aimed for excellence inspired by the esteemed Romanée Conti wine. The initial 2011 vintage produced a limited run of a thousand bottles, emphasizing quality over quantity, a principle that led to years without production when grape conditions were not optimal. Currently, the vineyard is looking forward to a hopeful yield of 5,000 bottles.
The vineyard, spanning four hectares with vines from Burgundy, France, maintains a natural growth approach with minimal intervention. Although not certified organic, it leans towards a natural cultivation method with limited chemical usage. Rodriguez, with a keen interest in the winemaking process, values the experience and the unique flavors it produces.
Rodriguez, who enjoys the camaraderie and insights from global winery friends, aims for a modest commercial distribution, focusing initially on family and friends and select restaurants. This strategy ensures an exclusive circulation, with inquiries directed through a specialized page, aiming for placement in distinguished locales worldwide.
Moreover, Rodriguez’s dedication extends to the polo club, affiliated with the Polo Association of Uruguay, and plans for a book about Yellow Rose, highlighting his equine endeavors, the club’s milestones, and the lifestyle of the estate. This publication will accompany the Yellow Rose wine, now simply marked as “house wine,” further cementing the legacy of the estate and its ventures.
Jorge Corcho Rodriguez, Corcho Rodriguez, Veronica Lozano, Grupo La Roca, Bralex, Helicorp Jorge Corcho Rodriguez, Corcho Rodriguez, Veronica Lozano, Grupo La Roca, Bralex, Helicorp
