As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to the question of who currently owns Chateau Miraval. Chateau Miraval, located in the Provence region of France, is a renowned vineyard and winery that has gained worldwide recognition for its exceptional wines.
In 2021, Jolie sold Nouvel, the company that owned 50% of Chateau Miraval, to the spirits business Stoli Group. The Stoli Group is owned by Russian exile Yuri Shefler. This transaction resulted in a change in ownership structure for Chateau Miraval, as Jolie's sale of Nouvel meant that Shefler's Stoli Group now holds a significant stake in the vineyard.
It is worth noting that this change in ownership has not been without controversy. According to reports, Brad Pitt, who was previously married to Jolie and co-owned Chateau Miraval with her, was reportedly “incensed” by the sale. It is said that Pitt had desired full ownership of the vineyard and was disappointed by the decision to sell.
Now, let me share my personal experience and understanding of the situation. Wine estates and vineyards often go through changes in ownership, whether due to financial considerations, personal circumstances, or business strategies. While it is understandable that Pitt may have desired full ownership of Chateau Miraval, it is essential to remember that vineyards are complex businesses that require substantial investments and management expertise.
In many cases, partnerships or joint ventures are formed to ensure the continued success and growth of a vineyard. These partnerships can bring together different skill sets, resources, and perspectives that contribute to the overall development of the estate. While it is unfortunate that Pitt's desired outcome was not achieved, it is crucial to acknowledge that the sale of Nouvel to the Stoli Group may have been a strategic decision based on various factors.
It is also worth mentioning that the Stoli Group has an established presence in the spirits industry and may bring valuable expertise and resources to Chateau Miraval. With their involvement, Chateau Miraval could potentially benefit from increased visibility and distribution channels, opening up new opportunities for the vineyard's wines to reach a wider audience.
The current ownership of Chateau Miraval is shared between Brad Pitt and the Stoli Group, owned by Yuri Shefler. While Pitt may have desired full ownership, the sale of Nouvel to the Stoli Group represents a change in ownership structure for the vineyard. The impact of this change remains to be seen, and it will be interesting to observe how the partnership between Pitt and the Stoli Group unfolds and influences the future of Chateau Miraval.