Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s Legal Battle Over Château Miraval Explained

Brad Pitt filed a lawsuit against Angelina Jolie on February 17, 2022, regarding their jointly owned vineyard, Château Miraval, in the south of France.

The couple acquired a controlling interest in the vineyard back in 2008.

Château Miraval is a sprawling estate that spans 1,200 acres and features structures dating back to the 17th century.

However, what was once a passion project has now become another contentious issue in the ex-couple's ongoing legal disputes following their divorce in 2016.

Pitt claims that Jolie sold her portion of the property without his consent, which goes against their previous agreement.

The lawsuit has escalated into an international dispute, with Pitt accusing Jolie of selling her shares to a Russian oligarch named Yuri Shefler in an invalid transaction.

Pitt argues that this alleged transaction damages the brand's reputation, especially after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

In response, Jolie's former company filed a $250 million cross-complaint, alleging that Pitt's motive behind gaining control over the company is revenge for their split and custody battle.

Additionally, they linked his alleged abusive behavior to his drinking habits.

On October 4, 2022, Jolie filed a cross-complaint detailing allegations of abuse involving their children, which occurred just days before their divorce filing.

The situation has become more complicated as new claims and lawsuits arise.

Nouvel, Jolie's former investment company that was bought out by Shefler, accused Pitt and other individuals of depleting Miraval's assets.

They filed a lawsuit seeking damages of at least $350 million.

Here's what you need to know about the ongoing dispute.

What's the background of this vineyard?

In 2008, Pitt and Jolie purchased a controlling interest in a company called Château Miraval, S.A., which included a home and vineyard in the South of France.

While it was a business venture, Miraval also held sentimental value for Pitt.

They intended to make the château their family home and run the vineyard as a family business.

The couple even celebrated their wedding at Miraval in 2014.

According to Pitt's lawsuit, he became heavily involved in the vineyard's operations, contributing to its success and turning it into a globally recognized brand known for its rosé wine.

On the other hand, Pitt claims that Jolie made no significant contributions to Miraval and instead benefitted from his investment and efforts.

Why does Pitt care if Jolie sells her shares?

Pitt argues that both he and Jolie agreed not to sell their respective interests in Miraval without the other's consent.

However, Jolie allegedly violated this agreement when she sold her share to Tenute del Mondo, a company with questionable ties, according to Pitt.

He believes that this sale breaches their agreement and deprives him of the right to enjoy the home they established together and oversee the business he helped build.

Furthermore, Pitt raises concerns about the alleged buyer's reputation, as Tenute del Mondo is indirectly owned by Yuri Shefler, a Russian billionaire with connections to controversial figures and boycotts against his vodka brand, Stolichnaya.

Why can't Pitt and Shefler get along?

Pitt claims that since Shefler acquired Jolie's stake in Miraval, he has been attempting a hostile takeover of the winery, jeopardizing its operations and reputation.

Pitt alleges that Shefler and one of his associates have threatened him and the business through text messages.

Pitt further asserts that Shefler had long desired to acquire Miraval and made an official offer in 2021, which Pitt declined.

According to Pitt, Jolie never sought his consent for the deal with Shefler, and he would have rejected it if she had.

Does this lawsuit relate to the Pitt-Jolie divorce?

To some extent, yes.

Jolie filed for divorce from Pitt in 2016, and since then, she has had minimal involvement in the winery's business.

Pitt claims that Jolie's decision to sell her shares is a departure from their initial plans for Miraval as a family business.

Furthermore, Jolie's alleged actions, such as secretly selling her shares and pursuing a deal with Shefler, are seen by Pitt as a violation of their agreement.

This lawsuit adds another layer of complexity to their already contentious divorce and custody battle.

Is this lawsuit becoming personal?

Yes, the situation has become increasingly messy.

In September 2022, Jolie's former investment company, Nouvel, accused Pitt of attempting to take control of the winery as revenge for their split.

They claimed that Pitt's actions were in retaliation for their divorce and custody battle.

These allegations shed light on their troubled marriage and Pitt's acknowledged struggle with alcohol abuse.

Additionally, Jolie filed a cross-complaint on October 4, 2022, providing more details about an alleged altercation between Pitt and herself on an airplane in 2016.

The cross-complaint alleges abusive behavior by Pitt towards Jolie and their children during the incident.

The legal battle over Château Miraval continues to unfold