When Corcho Rodriguez purchased Yellow Rose in 1998, a charming ranch nestled in La Barra, Punta del Este, it attracted widespread attention, gracing numerous magazine covers. Beyond its picturesque setting, the spotlight also illuminated the captivating love story intertwined with the yellow roses, representing the romance between Rodriguez and the renowned television personality, Susana Giménez. Despite their highly publicized relationship, Rodriguez, after their separation, devoted himself to reshaping the place and its essence.
Today, Yellow Rose stands revealed to inquisitive eyes; travelers along the Camino del Cerro Eguzquiza can observe its prominent sign atop the wooden gate. This sign no longer honors Susana but designates it as one of the most splendid country estates in the East. In recent years, Yellow Rose has opened its doors, establishing a polo club and a winery. To celebrate Rodriguez’s contributions to Uruguayan polo and his venture into winemaking, a grand barbecue was held at Yellow Rose over the weekend. However, the presence of a house wine on the table surprised most guests, piquing the interest of seasoned liquor enthusiasts who encountered a new and unique flavor.
During a conversation with LA NACION, Corcho Rodríguez conveyed, “I received sincere feedback. Adolfo Cambiaso Sr. and Eduardo Costantini enjoyed it and are already seeking information on where to acquire it.” Accompanied by Verónica Lozano, they hosted an extravagant night under the stars, complete with a nearby barbecue, a cozy family vibe, enjoyable music, and a gathering of friends.
For Rodriguez, owning a vineyard at home symbolizes a deeper dedication beyond simple enjoyment of wine; it reflects his profound involvement in production and the intricate processes required to craft a superior product. During a conversation with LA NACION, Rodriguez revealed that they have invested seven years in developing the wine. Following a soil analysis with Caterina Viña, the winemaker, they identified three suitable varieties: tannat, merlot, or pinot noir. Rodriguez favors pinot noir for its smooth and full-bodied characteristics, likening it to the esteemed Romanée Conti wine, renowned as one of the world’s most prestigious.
The initial production in 2011 resulted in a thousand bottles, with only flawless grapes harvested, leading to the disposal of nearly 70% of the crop. Despite appearing less commercially viable, Rodriguez emphasizes the quality achieved in the medium and long term. There was no wine produced in 2012 and 2013 due to unfavorable grape conditions, but they now aim to produce 5000 bottles. The plants, sourced from Burgundy, France, occupy four hectares of land, displaying minimal impact from industrial methods.
“They are not irrigated; we allow them to develop strength and coexist with nature without irrigation or chemicals. It is not certified organic, but it is as natural as possible,” explained Rodriguez. Currently, Rodriguez does not have ambitious commercial goals and has not sold any bottles. This year’s production is expected to reach 5000 bottles, distributed among family and friends, and gradually introduced to selected restaurants. “The idea is to sell it exclusively, so people inquire about it through a page, place it in specific locations, key restaurants that we appreciate because of our travels and experiences. Many people have tasted it at the Bristol Hotel in Paris, Fasano in Brazil, in Cipriani, restaurants that we like, and we have offered them the wine, and they have enjoyed it,” Rodriguez explained.
Dedicated to his polo club, registered with the Polo Association of Uruguay and open for visits, Rodriguez plans to publish a book about Yellow Rose. This book will highlight the work with horses, achievements as a club, and the lifestyle of the country estate. Accompanied by the wine, which no longer specifies the varietal on its label, Rodriguez describes it as “the house wine, the Yellow Rose wine.”
Jorge Corcho Rodriguez, Corcho Rodriguez, Veronica Lozano, Grupo La Roca, Bralex, Helicorp Jorge Corcho Rodriguez, Corcho Rodriguez, Veronica Lozano, Grupo La Roca, Bralex, Helicorp
