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Brad Pitt has escalated the ongoing legal battle with Angelina Jolie, requesting access to private communications in a significant development surrounding their dispute over Château Miraval, the $500 million winery they once shared. The former power couple's divorce, finalized in 2019 after a 2016 split, has been plagued by legal wrangling, primarily centered on the ownership of the prestigious French estate.

The heart of the matter lies in Château Miraval, a sprawling property in Provence, France, renowned for its rosé wine. Pitt and Jolie initially purchased the winery together in 2011, investing heavily in its development and transforming it into a globally recognized brand. However, the situation took a dramatic turn when Jolie secretly sold her stake in the winery to Stoli Group in 2021, effectively cutting Pitt out of the business.

Pitt's recent move to demand private messages is a key component of his legal strategy. He argues that Jolie's actions were not only financially damaging but also violated their previous agreements regarding the winery's management and future. By accessing these communications, Pitt's legal team hopes to uncover evidence of potential wrongdoing, breach of contract, and perhaps even misrepresentation on Jolie's part. The request specifically targets communications between Jolie and her representatives concerning the sale of her stake.

Jolie's legal team is strongly opposing Pitt's request, citing concerns about privacy and the scope of the demand. They argue that the communications are private and irrelevant to the core issues of the dispute. Furthermore, they claim that Pitt's request is a fishing expedition, designed to harass Jolie and prolong the legal proceedings. The arguments point to the sensitive nature of the communications, potentially involving family matters and personal discussions unrelated to the business.

This latest development adds another layer of complexity to an already protracted legal battle. A judge will now need to rule on Pitt’s request for access to the private messages. The outcome could significantly impact the direction of the case and potentially influence the final settlement. Beyond the immediate legal implications, the dispute highlights the challenges of co-ownership in high-profile relationships and the potential for financial and emotional turmoil when things go wrong. The case is being closely watched by legal experts and industry observers alike, given the significant financial stakes and the high-profile nature of the parties involved. The ultimate resolution of the Château Miraval saga remains uncertain, but this latest move suggests Pitt is determined to fight for his interests.

The value of Château Miraval is estimated at $500 million, making this one of the most high-profile divorce-related disputes in recent years. The winery’s success has been driven by its critically acclaimed rosé wine, which has become a favorite among celebrities and wine enthusiasts worldwide. The battle for control of this valuable asset is likely to continue for some time, with significant legal costs and potential reputational damage for both parties.