Hollywood star Brad Pitt is pushing back against his ex-wife Angelina Jolie's attempt to delay their high-stakes legal trial over the $164 million French winery Chateau Miraval. The former couple, who purchased the estate jointly in 2008, have been embroiled in a bitter dispute since Jolie sold her half to Russian oligarch Yuri Shefler for $67 million in 2021 without Pitt's consent.
Clash Over Trial Dates
Court documents obtained by the Daily Mail reveal that while the trial is currently scheduled for February 1, 2027, Jolie wants it pushed back to November 2027. Pitt, however, is willing to accept only a two-month delay and strongly opposes moving it to the fourth quarter of 2027. The 62-year-old actor argues that prolonged litigation is preventing his "quiet enjoyment" of his French home and has "stymied" the winery's business operations.
Pitt's Legal Strategy
Pitt has taken aggressive legal steps to expedite the process, including requesting a judge to force Russian oligarch Yuri Shefler to appear for a remote deposition. He alleges that Shefler, who now owns Jolie's former stake, attempted a "hostile takeover" of Chateau Miraval and has direct knowledge of the transaction's orchestration. Despite Shefler resisting on grounds of Swiss residency, Pitt insists emails prove his involvement.
Jolie's Counterarguments
Angelina Jolie contends that Pitt initiated the lawsuit with complex international elements, including out-of-country witnesses, justifying the need for more preparation time. She denies that the case affects Pitt's ability to live in the property, stating there is "no evidence" supporting his claim. The actress also maintains that communications with her aides are protected by privilege, though a judge recently ordered her to hand over 22 disputed documents.
Recent Legal Developments
In December 2025, Pitt scored a significant victory when Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Lia Martin sided with him, compelling Jolie to produce emails and texts related to the winery sale. The ruling, issued just before Pitt's 62nd birthday, gave Jolie 45 days to comply. Pitt's legal team argues these documents will prove Jolie has been "disingenuous" about the sale from the beginning.
Broader Context of the Dispute
The legal battle extends beyond business matters, touching on personal history. The couple married at Chateau Miraval in 2014 but separated in 2016 after Jolie accused Pitt of a drunken altercation on a private plane. Their divorce was finalized eight years later, with all six children reportedly siding with Jolie and most dropping the Pitt surname. Jolie claims she left Pitt control of their family homes, including Miraval, without compensation to maintain peace.
Financial and Emotional Stakes
Chateau Miraval, a 1,000-acre estate in southern France producing award-winning rosé, has become a symbol of their acrimonious split. Jolie faces potential damages if she fails to undo the Shefler deal, while Pitt seeks to restore what he views as a violated agreement giving each partner first refusal on stake sales. The case has seen multiple rulings in Pitt's favor, including a Luxembourg decision returning control of the vineyard to him pending further hearings.
Mediation is scheduled for October 28, 2026, ahead of the February 2027 trial date. Both parties continue to exchange sharp accusations in filings, with Jolie's attorney calling Pitt's actions part of a "years-long effort to harass and control her," while Pitt's team dismisses such claims as "theatrics." The outcome will determine not only the winery's future but also mark another chapter in one of Hollywood's most publicized divorces.
