A man who built an energy drink empire is now building something else entirely: one of the most impressive luxury real estate portfolios in South Florida.
After selling Rockstar Energy to PepsiCo in a multibillion-dollar deal, Russell Weiner, now known as Russell Savage, turned his attention to South Florida luxury real estate. What began as a quick flip in North Palm Beach has grown into a bold and strategic acquisition of ultra-luxury properties stretching from Delray Beach to Star Island in Miami Beach.
Who Is Russell Savage, Formerly Russell Weiner?
Russell Weiner founded Rockstar Energy in 2001 and grew it into one of the most recognized energy drink brands in the world. In 2020, he sold the company to PepsiCo for a reported $4+ billion. Since then, he’s pivoted to real estate, investing hundreds of millions into South Florida luxury real estate.
In an interview with The Real Deal, Weiner explained that he now goes by Russell Savage, adopting his father’s radio name. The rebrand marks a new chapter focused on legacy and lifestyle.
The Billion-Dollar Shift to South Florida Luxury Real Estate
Savage wasted no time after selling Rockstar Energy. In September 2020, he purchased two luxury homes in North Palm Beach from Elin Nordegren, the ex-wife of Tiger Woods. Just 35 days later, he sold both properties to billionaire investor Robert F. Smith, earning a remarkable 47% return in barely a month.
This early move wasn’t just about timing, it reflected Savage’s strong belief in Florida’s long-term value. He has since called Florida “the new Golden State,” pointing to its lack of state income tax, pro-business climate, perceived lower crime rates, high quality of life, and the surging demand for gated, waterfront living as key reasons why he continues to invest heavily in the region.
Inside Savage's South Florida Luxury Real Estate Portfolio
North Palm Beach – The Flip That Sparked a Billion-Dollar Buying Spree
Russell Savage’s real estate empire began with a bold move in North Palm Beach. In September 2020, he purchased two neighboring homes in the exclusive Seminole Landing community and at 12395 Banyan Road from none other than Elin Nordegren, the ex-wife of golf legend Tiger Woods for the price of $32.9 million.
Just 35 days later, Savage flipped both properties to billionaire investor Robert F. Smith for $48.2 million, pocketing a remarkable 47% gain in barely a month. Savage clearly saw what many missed: the explosive rise of South Florida luxury real estate.
This early flip laid the foundation for a much bigger vision, marking his entry into Florida’s high-end market and showing his sharp instincts for value, timing, and elite locations.
9303 Hawk Shadow Lane – A Statement of Modern Elegance in Stone Creek Ranch
Tucked within the ultra-exclusive gates of Stone Creek Ranch in Delray Beach, this 11,500-square-foot estate at 9303 Hawk Shadow Lane is a masterpiece of modern design and scale. Set on 2.5 acres of manicured land, the home features soaring walls of glass that blur the lines between indoors and out.
The layout is built around privacy and tranquility, with wide lake views, a dramatic motor court, and a resort-caliber pool that anchors the backyard. Currently under contract for close to $22 million, this estate perfectly embodies Savage’s formula: seclusion, scale, and water access, the essential elements of South Florida luxury real estate.
16071 Quiet Vista Circle – Privacy and Prestige on 2.6 Acres
Just a short drive away in the same prestigious community, Savage secured the neighboring estate at 16071 Quiet Vista Circle. This home, also measuring around 11,500 square feet, sits on 2.6 acres and was acquired for $16.7 million, significantly below its $20.9 million asking price. Beyond the value play, the home is a long-term hold opportunity with deep appeal: a long, private approach, expansive water frontage, towering ceilings, and a backyard designed for large-scale entertaining. With its elegant architectural lines and luxurious scale, it fits seamlessly into Savage’s growing portfolio of trophy real estate in South Florida.
43 Star Island Drive – A $100 Million Vision on Miami Beach’s Most Iconic Island
Russell Savage made headlines when he purchased 43 Star Island Drive, the former estate of Rosie O’Donnell, for $35.3 million. Located on Miami Beach’s most exclusive island, the 1.1-acre waterfront property already includes 200 feet of direct water access, two guesthouses, a boathouse, and lush tropical landscaping. But Savage has bigger plans. He’s expanding the residence to a 15,000-square-foot ultra-mansion, complete with a private spa, gym, cabana, and even a padel court. Once completed, the home is expected to hit the market with a price tag exceeding $100 million, solidifying its place as a crown jewel in the Miami Beach luxury real estate scene.
5300 North Bay Road – A Renovated Modern Gem with Waterfront Views
Nestled along the prestigious North Bay Road in Miami Beach, the five-bedroom, seven-bathroom residence at 5300 North Bay Road has undergone a complete luxury transformation under Savage’s ownership. Originally acquired for $16.1 million by developer Keith Menin, Savage has taken the reins, expanding and refining the home into a 6,023-square-foot showpiece.
With clean lines, open interiors, and direct water access, the home is now listed for $32.5 million with One Sotheby’s International Realty. It stands as a sleek, turn-key option for buyers seeking modern design and waterfront prestige.
5011, 5101, and 5111 Pine Tree Drive – The $100 Million Super-Compound in the Making
In one of his most ambitious projects yet, Savage has spent the last few years assembling a massive estate along Pine Tree Drive in Miami Beach. The three adjacent lots, 5011, 5101, and 5111 Pine Tree Drive , span nearly 3.5 acres combined, a rare and coveted land mass in a densely developed luxury corridor.
Purchased for over $35 million, with one parcel acquired via foreclosure, Savage is developing a $100M+ private compound that rivals anything else in South Florida. While construction has faced delays due to legal disputes with a former project manager, the vision remains bold: create an unmatched estate defined by privacy, size, and location.
Why South Florida Luxury Real Estate Attracts Billionaires?
Florida continues to attract ultra-wealthy buyers from high-tax states like California, New York, and throughout the Northeast. The appeal? It’s more than just sunshine and ocean views. The state offers a powerful combination of financial incentives, lifestyle benefits, and long-term investment potential.
There’s no state income tax, making Florida especially attractive for high-net-worth individuals seeking to preserve capital. Add in business-friendly policies that support economic growth, and it’s easy to see why more investors are calling South Florida home. The region’s warm weather, year-round coastal lifestyle, and access to private beaches and marinas only sweeten the deal.
Safety and privacy also play a role. Gated communities are perceived to have lower crime rates, and buyers often gravitate toward neighborhoods where security and exclusivity come standard.
In western communities like Delray Beach and Wellington, space is abundant, a rare luxury in coastal areas. Private enclaves such as Stone Creek Ranch offer exactly what these buyers are looking for: expansive homes, serene settings, and true seclusion.
The numbers paint a clear picture. In September 2025 alone, South Florida luxury real estate recorded over $4.3 billion in sales. More than 430 homes priced above $10 million closed within a single year. Inventory remains tight, with only a 4.2-month supply in many top-tier neighborhoods.
Prices in gated communities have surged by 10 to 15 percent annually, far outpacing the broader market. Even with a 20 percent jump in insurance premiums, demand has not slowed. Cash-ready buyers are still pouring in.
FAQs about South Florida Luxury Real Estate & Russell Savage
Who is Russell Savage?
Russell Savage, formerly known as Russell Weiner, is the billionaire founder of Rockstar Energy. After selling his company to PepsiCo in a multibillion-dollar deal, he transitioned into luxury real estate investing, focusing on high-value properties throughout South Florida.
Why did he change his name?
He adopted the name Russell Savage as a tribute to his father’s radio persona. The name change marked a new phase of his life and career as he shifted from the beverage industry to real estate.
Where are his properties located?
Savage owns multiple luxury properties in South Florida, including estates in North Palm Beach, Delray Beach’s Stone Creek Ranch, Miami Beach’s Star Island, North Bay Road, and a large compound under development on Pine Tree Drive.
Why are billionaires moving to South Florida?
South Florida offers no state income tax, a pro-business climate, and year-round warm weather. It also provides privacy, security, and access to exclusive gated communities. These factors make it highly appealing to high-net-worth individuals leaving states like California and New York.
Talk to a South Florida Luxury Real Estate Expert
Looking to buy, sell, or invest in South Florida luxury real estate? Whether you're searching for your dream home or building a portfolio like Russell Savage, The Mastropieri Group, Realtors® offers the expertise you need. As trusted real estate professionals serving elite communities, we guide clients through every step of the high-end market with confidence and precision. Call us at (561) 544-7000 to connect with a local expert today.
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